Ruto to officially launch Raila's candidacy for AU Commission Chair

Azimio leader Raila Odinga (left) with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. [Standard, File]

 President William Ruto is set to formally launch the candidacy of Raila Odinga for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship ahead of the February 2025 elections.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi confirmed the launch, scheduled for Monday, August 27, during a media briefing on Wednesday, August 21.

"Next week on August 27, 2024, President William Ruto will be formally launching the candidacy of the Kenyan candidate, Raila Odinga," said Mudavadi.

The AUC chairperson position will become vacant next year as the chair, Moussa Faki, concludes his two-term tenure.

Mudavadi expressed confidence in Odinga's candidacy, stating it was more than a personal bid.

"This is more than a candidacy. It is a national mission. Raila Odinga represents Kenya’s voice, values, and aspirations on the continent. As he steps forward let us stand with him, not just as a government but as a united people," he said.

Odinga will face off against three other candidates in a televised debate in September, six months before the election.

 His opponents include Djibouti Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Youssuf, Anil Kumarsingh Gayan of Mauritius, and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.

"Our candidate is undoubtedly experienced and well-prepared to participate in the live debate to engage the African people on how to propel the continent's growth and ensure Africa achieves its goals of African integration, and sustainable development," noted Mudavadi.

Odinga expressed gratitude for the government's support and called for continued backing throughout his campaign.

"African Union needs to be strengthened, for it to enable African people to realise the dreams of the founding fathers of our continent, a united, peaceful and prosperous Africa, where the citizens themselves feel that they are free as a people and can work productively for the continent," said Odinga.

Odinga also addressed Africa's challenges, including health, education, and employment, noting that many young Africans risk migrating to Europe due to poverty.

In July, the government formally submitted Odinga’s bid for the chairmanship.