Excitement is building in Addis Ababa as Kenyans rally behind Raila Odinga ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship election. A group of enthusiastic supporters gathered outside the African Union headquarters on Friday, singing and chanting in support of Raila, Kenya’s candidate for the prestigious continental position.
The crowd, which included Nairobi Members of County Assembly (MCAs) and other Kenyan leaders, passionately sang, “Tawala Africa, tawala! Raila Odinga, tawala Africa, tawala!” a song of encouragement urging the veteran politician to take the reins of leadership in Africa.
A significant Kenyan delegation has traveled to Addis Ababa to offer Raila moral support as heads of state and government prepare to vote in the crucial election. Reports indicate that MPs, governors, and senators have joined the campaign, demonstrating the country’s unified backing for Raila’s bid.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula confirmed on Thursday that over 40 MPs had sought clearance to travel for the election. However, the government has only funded the travel expenses of four legislators: Nelson Koech (Belgut MP and Chairperson of the Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations Committee), Lydia Haika (Taita Taveta Woman Representative and Chairperson of the Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers Committee), Bashir Abdullahi (Mandera North MP and Vice Chairperson of the Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations Committee), and Millie Odhiambo (Suba North MP and Minority Whip).
“I am also aware that other Members will be travelling in their private capacity as leaders and citizens of this country, in support of Raila Odinga’s candidature,” Wetang’ula told Parliament.
In addition to the national leaders, several county assembly speakers and MCAs—particularly from Raila’s strongholds—have also arrived in Addis Ababa ahead of the vote. Reports suggest that hotels in the Ethiopian capital are fully booked, largely by Kenyans who have traveled to witness and support the election.
Raila faces stiff competition in Saturday’s vote, where at least 49 heads of state and government have assembled for the 38th Ordinary Summit. The outcome of the election will shape the future leadership of the AU Commission, and Raila’s supporters remain optimistic about his chances.
As the clock ticks towards the decisive moment, all eyes are on Addis Ababa, where the future of African Union leadership hangs in the balance.
