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The Nairobian

Gideon backs Raila AUC bid, hails his leadership and vision for Africa

Rift Valley

By Caroline Chebet | Dec 20, 2024

**Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Kabarak University Chancellor Gideon Moi during the 20th graduation ceremony, on December 20, 2024**. [ Kipsang Joseph,Standard]

Kanu chairman Gideon Moi has drummed up support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship candidature.

Speaking while presiding over the 20th graduation ceremony at Kabarak University, Gideon cited Raila’s role as a peacemaker and a mediator in African and global conflicts.

“Hon Odinga champions African integration through infrastructure, commerce, and the free movement of Africans across borders, as well as an advocate for Africa’s geopolitical interests, values, and Ubuntu. He is a political visionary, entrepreneur, organizational and institutional mobilise, author, and a thoughtful leader,” Gideon said.

He noted Raila had represented Africa at various international forums where he has articulated the continent’s perspectives on multiple issues, including trade, development, climate change, peace and security.

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“His participation in these global events has helped to amplify African voices and concerns on the international stage,” Gideon said.

“In February 2011, he was appointed Special Peace Envoy of the African Union following the post-election crisis in Cote d’Ivoire. He also served as an election observer in several countries, including Nigeria and Zimbabwe.”

Besides his career in politics, Gideon noted his track record of improving other people’s lives.

In his speech, Raila noted that the economy is not in its best shape, noting that there are tremendous social pressures that are testing the limits and capacity to endure.

“Unemployment rates remain untenable, even as we grapple with the right formula to finance healthcare and higher education,” he said

“These challenges have led to a growing trust deficit in our governance institutions. Our unity as one people under one nation is undergoing a severe test,” he added.

Across Africa, he said, there are mixed results with regard to governance. He noted that countries are grappling to service debts as climate change continues to exert pressure on fragile economies.

“The wars in Europe and Middle East and the uncertainties surrounding the regime in the US are not making the world any more at ease,” he noted. Amidst the current economic challenges, he said that Kenya has choices to make in the wake of the challenges.