Raila Odinga’s AUC Candidacy Finally Formalised By Kenya
Kenya has officially submitted the documents required to register Azimio leader Raila Odinga as a candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
According to a statement issued by Korir Sing’oei, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Foreign Affairs, the government confirmed making the submissions on Monday at the continental body’s headquarters in Addis Ababa.
The papers were handed over to the AU’s Eastern Region Dean, Dharmraj Busgeeth, Ambassador of Mauritius.
DONE @_AfricanUnion for the candidature of @RailaOdinga for AUC Chairperson @SingoeiAKorir pic.twitter.com/WPHHXJeaez
— Prof Makau Mutua (@makaumutua) July 29, 2024
“Under the authority of the Government of Kenya and as per the Statutes and Rules of the African Union Commission, we have today formally submitted requisite documentation of Kenya’s nominee for for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission, H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga, to the Dean of Eastern Region, H.E. Dharmraj Busgeeth, Ambassador of Mauritius,” stated Korir.
While acknowledging the submission, the ODM party expressed confidence in Raila as a candidate, revealing that it is awaiting the results of the process.
“Submitted. In God we Trust,” the party stated.
According to the government, Odinga’s priorities and strategies will center on a number of pressing issues in Africa.
“In this regard, Kenya has offered the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga for the position of AUC Chairperson,” stated Korir.
“This decision is informed by Mr. Odinga’s Pan-Africanist credentials, his suitability, his vast networks across Africa and his proven competence to lead AUC Africa’s premier continental organization.”
If elected, his top priorities will be African integration and infrastructure development, economic transformation, boosting intra-African trade, and promoting the continent’s financial independence.
Furthermore, the government expressed confidence in Raila’s candidacy, citing the country’s status as an AU member in good standing and its consistent compliance with Union obligations.
“In addition, Kenya is an exemplar of African solutions to African problems through its financial support to AU’s initiatives, and leading role in peace, security and conflict management in the continent including in mediation efforts,” stated Korir.
Raila Odinga’s AUC Candidacy Finally Formalised By Kenya