ADDIS ABABA: Raila Odinga, Ruto Break Silence After AUC Defeat
Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has broken his silence after losing the African Union Commission’s (AUC) chairperson race to Djibouti’s Mohammad Youssouf.
Odinga accepted defeat after failing to win the top continental seat during a speech at the African Union shortly after the election process ended.
Odinga expressed gratitude for the support he received and congratulated Mohamoud, adding that he had little regret about the loss.
Raila Odinga speaks after the just concluded AUC chairmanship elections.#AUCElections #TV47News pic.twitter.com/vlHu4v5EfB
— tv47ke (@Tv47Newske) February 15, 2025
“I therefore concede defeat and want us to use this as an example of strengthening democracy on our continent,” Raila commented.
“I wish Mahamoud Ali Youssouf all the best and success in his undertaking.”
“I also want to thank both those who voted for me and those who did not for exercising their democratic rights. I am not bitter; I’m very happy indeed,” he added.
According to Odinga, his new plan is to return home. However, he stated that he is still available to provide services to the continent in any form.
Moments later, President William Ruto, who was accompanying the former Prime Minister, also commented on Odinga’s defeat, describing the election as one to determine the continent’s future.
Ruto, like Raila, thanked all African presidents who took part in the election process, including Mohamoud Youssouf, the newly elected AUC head.
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“While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent,” Ruto stated.
While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable @RailaOdinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for according…
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) February 15, 2025
“Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for allowing him to share his passion for the continent’s transformation.”
Odinga was defeated by the Djiboutian candidate on Saturday evening after losing the last three rounds of voting to Youssouf, despite winning the first two.
In the sixth and final round of voting, Mahamoud won with 33 votes and will now succeed Chad’s Moussa Faki, who has held the position for eight years.
ADDIS ABABA: Raila Odinga, Ruto Break Silence After AUC Defeat
