Raila Odinga begins Southern Africa tour to rally support for AUC chair bid

Kenya’s AUC candidate, Raila Odinga, has begun his Southern African tour ahead of the AUC elections, seeking Zimbabwe’s support for his bid to succeed Chadian Moussa Faki in February.

“We landed in Harare, Zimbabwe today to a warm reception courtesy of H.E. President Emmerson Mnangagwa,” Raila posted on X.

He added, “It’s been a pleasure sharing my vision for Africa with the president and discussing my candidacy for the AUC Chairmanship.”

Odinga’s diplomatic efforts aim to secure backing from key African nations ahead of the pivotal vote, testing Nairobi’s political and diplomatic capabilities.

Recently, Raila visited Mauritius, which withdrew its bid for the AUC top seat in favor of his candidacy.

The move reduced the race to three contenders: Kenya’s Raila Odinga, Djibouti’s Mahamoud Youssouf, and Madagascar’s Richard Randrianmandato.

Odinga is engaging a region historically known for consensus-building during crucial AU votes.

Madagascar, part of the SADC bloc, has fronted Richard Randrianmandato, its former foreign minister, as a candidate.

Raila’s tour is expected to continue through Southern African nations, gathering support for his bid.

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