In just over a week, Africa will know if former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga will become the next African Union Commission (AUC) Chairman. With more than half of the eligible votes reportedly in his favor, optimism runs high. However, given Raila’s past electoral experiences, his camp remains cautiously hopeful, avoiding any premature celebrations.
A striking aspect of Raila’s AUC bid has been the unwavering support from President William Ruto. Since the campaign’s inception, Ruto has actively championed Raila’s candidacy, taking him along to crucial bilateral and multilateral meetings with African leaders. This access has been instrumental in allowing Raila to personally present his vision to key decision-makers across the continent.
Some analysts argue that Ruto’s support is a calculated move to gain favor with the Luo community ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, this perspective oversimplifies the President’s motivations. Beyond political expediency, Ruto appears to recognize the historical significance of Raila’s political career and seeks to secure him a dignified transition to a continental role. By facilitating Raila’s path to the AUC chairmanship, Ruto positions Kenya as a power broker in Africa while granting Raila a prestigious statesman role beyond local politics.
Ruto’s commitment extends beyond mere endorsement. His administration has mobilized state resources to bolster Raila’s candidacy, ensuring Kenya’s diplomatic influence is effectively leveraged. This marks a stark contrast to previous attempts at securing top AU positions, such as Ambassador Amina Mohamed’s unsuccessful bid in 2017 under former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Furthermore, Ruto’s outreach to the Luo community has been evident in his government appointments. Key figures such as the late Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, and Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi exemplify a deliberate effort to integrate the community into national leadership.
If Raila secures the AUC role, it will not only mark a personal milestone but also a diplomatic triumph for Kenya. It will reaffirm Ruto’s ability to deliver where previous administrations have fallen short, reinforcing his credentials as a leader who can navigate complex political landscapes.
As Africa anticipates the final decision, one thing remains clear: President Ruto’s magnanimity and strategic foresight in supporting Raila’s AU ambitions could redefine Kenya’s diplomatic influence for years to come.
