Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has officially endorsed former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship for the 2025-2028 term. The endorsement was announced by Kenya’s President William Ruto during a meeting with President Embaló at State House, Nairobi, on Saturday.
President Ruto expressed gratitude for Guinea-Bissau’s support, noting that Kenya’s candidate represents the nation’s dedication to advancing the Pan-African agenda. “I am confident that our candidate will provide visionary and results-driven leadership, prioritizing the needs and aspirations of member states,” President Ruto said.
Raila Odinga’s campaign to secure the prestigious role, which is the highest-ranking position within the African Union, has gained significant traction. He is competing against Djibouti’s Mahamoud Youssouf, with the election scheduled for next month in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Odinga has been intensifying his campaign efforts, meeting with heads of state and government leaders across the continent to consolidate support. His focus has been on promoting his vision for African unity, economic independence, and prosperity.
In a strategic push, Raila was recently invited to Nouakchott, Mauritania, where he held discussions with African Union Chairperson Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who is also the President of Mauritania. During the visit, Odinga also met with Mohamed El Habib, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to further outline his aspirations and agenda for the African Union.
“During our discussions, I presented my vision centred on the unity of Africa’s people and the imperative for economic independence and prosperity,” Raila said.
The position of AUC Chairperson is critical for the African Union’s operations, with the holder acting as the chief executive officer of the commission. The role carries a four-year term, with the possibility of one renewal. In contrast, the Chairperson of the African Union serves in a ceremonial capacity, typically held by a head of state or government.
As the election date approaches, Odinga is leaving no stone unturned, visiting African capitals to secure the votes necessary to make history as the next AUC Chairperson. His Pan-African message has resonated with leaders like President Embaló, further solidifying his candidacy as a front-runner in the high-stakes race.
The outcome of the AUC election will significantly shape the leadership and direction of the African Union for the coming years.
