Raila Speaks On AU Poll Outcome, Reaction On Both Scenarios
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister, is nearing the end of his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson post.
As Moussa Faki’s term nears its end, Raila is banking on African leaders to vote for him in February 2025.
“I have been to African countries, I have talked to many leaders and the majority have supported me,” Raila told Radio Citizen in an exclusive interview on Friday.
“I am not done (talking to leaders). I expect when the elections come, we will win. If we win it is OK, if not it is fine. We know that he who does not accept defeat is not fit for competition.”
Raila says he will continue to serve his country even if he is not elected.
“I am a Kenyan, I will remain a Kenyan. If I do not get the seat, I will still be a Kenyan and will do what Kenyans want,” he said.
Q: Could the coming of the outgoing chair of the AU to the very homeland of the Kenyan candidate be interpreted as an endorsement?
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) December 27, 2024
Raila Odinga: I don’t think so…I don’t think he came to discuss my candidature and I do not think that he can openly come out to support any… pic.twitter.com/1W5XeLu8mP
Raila stated that if elected, his ambition is to raise the continent by upgrading infrastructure and promoting trade among African states. He wants to unite the continent politically and economically.
On December 24, incumbent chairwoman Faki traveled to Kenya and met President William Ruto at his Kilgoris house.
In a media briefing, Ruto stated that they discussed African Union reforms and the upcoming AUC elections.
“We are implementing reforms at the African Union’s structure to make it more effective and efficient in pursuing the continent’s interests,” said Ruto.
However, some pundits interpreted the meeting as a bidding session for Raila’s candidacy. In reaction, Ruto stated that Faki’s visit was not an endorsement.
Raila Speaks On AU Poll Outcome, Reaction On Both Scenarios
