Ruto and Museveni back Raila for AUC chair bid

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Two Heads of State have drummed up support for Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), arguing that he is the best candidate for the position.

President William Ruto and his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni both stated that Raila possesses the necessary credentials for the job.

Speaking during the closing of the annual Piny Luo Cultural Festival at Got Ramogi in Siaya yesterday, Ruto said they had witnessed tremendous support for Raila’s candidacy.

“Before we launched his candidacy, we consulted with President Museveni and confirmed that we had the right candidate,” said Ruto, adding that the ODM leader is a candidate for the East African Community.

He expressed confidence that Raila’s leadership would foster peace across the continent, effectively manage conflicts, and unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.

“We are confident that Raila’s successful bid will see the fortunes of our continent change for the better in the future,” he said.

Ruto also championed African integration, noting that territorial boundaries should not be roadblocks to trade and investment between countries.

Instead, he said, nations must collaborate for the greater good of the continent.

“There cannot be a successful Kenya without a thriving East Africa,” added Ruto.

His sentiments were echoed by President Museveni, who called on African countries to work towards a unity of purpose and ensure inclusive growth and shared prosperity across the continent.

Museveni, who was the chief guest at the cultural event, reiterated that the region supports Raila’s candidacy for the chairperson of the African Union Commission.

He pointed out that those in positions of power across Africa have the authority to bring about meaningful change on the continent.

“He will help us with brainstorming, but the real power is with us. We are in charge of these states. We are the ones who can say we move, and we move,” said Museveni.

He further emphasised the need to revisit the continent’s historical priorities, which he identified as creating prosperity for the people, establishing strategic security against threats, and promoting the integration of Africa.

On Thursday, Raila said it was time to actualise the dream of the founding fathers of the African Union.

The former prime minister, who expressed confidence in winning the seat, stressed the need to focus on uniting Africa.

“Issues of migration and making it easier for people and goods to move are very important,” he said, adding that Africa trades more with the international world than with itself.

He called for the opening of borders to allow for the free movement of goods and services, saying this would greatly benefit the continent.

President Ruto announced that the government would build a fish landing site in Wichlum, Siaya County, at a cost of Sh100 million.

He also opened the Nyang’oma Technical Training College Ramogi Campus.