As the African Union Commission (AUC) elections draw closer, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) women have organized a special prayer session for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Raila, who is vying for the AUC chairmanship, will face off against Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato in the highly anticipated election scheduled for February 15 during the ordinary session of the Heads of State meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The prayer session is set to take place on Monday at the Bomas of Kenya and will bring together clergy, top ODM officials, and invited guests. The event, dubbed “Women Praying for Baba,” aims to seek divine intervention for Raila as he embarks on this crucial continental leadership race. Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris confirmed the gathering through her X (formerly Twitter) account, emphasizing Raila’s long-standing commitment to women’s empowerment, equality, and justice.
“Baba has always been a champion for women’s empowerment and equality, as well as a symbol of resilience and justice for Kenya. We love you, Baba,” Passaris wrote.
The ODM Women League has extended an open invitation to all, including members of other political parties. A section of Kenya Kwanza politicians is expected to attend, signaling a bipartisan backing for Raila’s continental ambitions. The unity behind Raila’s bid has been further reinforced by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who recently expressed confidence in Raila’s chances of clinching the AUC chairmanship.
“After the elections, Ruto and Raila agreed that Kenya should have a candidate in the AUC elections. And because they have been friends for a long time, dating back to Ruto’s days in ODM, they agreed that Kenya’s candidate should be Raila,” Kindiki said last week.
Raila concluded his continental campaign last week and has since retreated to prepare for his final push ahead of the elections. He is widely seen as the frontrunner in the race, buoyed by strong endorsements from key African leaders and a well-organized diplomatic strategy led by the Kenyan government.
The prayer session underscores the deep support Raila enjoys within his party and among his political allies. As he prepares to leave for Addis Ababa on Saturday, all eyes will be on the AUC elections, where Kenya hopes to secure a significant diplomatic victory through his leadership.
