"The secretariat will include members from all five regions of Africa. This will greatly assist in making the case for Raila Odinga," said Ruto.
The president urged Raila to unite Africans and serve all Africans equally if elected. "The task before us at the African Union is a mission for all Africans. It is a noble cause to connect our people and nations with the promising future we all deserve," he added.
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Odinga on the other hand pledged to make the African Union a people-centered organisation by collaborating with all leaders to achieve his vision.
"I plan to work with Your Excellencies to make the African Union people-centered. If elected chair, I will use the transition period to critically analyse existing proposals for reforms and to build the capacity of the AU Commission,"he said.
The former premier also promised that, if elected AUC chairperson, he would eliminate visa requirements within African countries, combat trade barriers, and ensure the continent benefits from its mineral resources.
"Raila has tirelessly championed the cause of African unity and progress, always putting Africa first. Odinga embodies the ideals of people-centered, visionary leadership that the AUC needs," said Mudavadi.
If elected next year, Odinga will replace Chad's Moussa Faki.