As the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson election draws closer, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has thrown her weight behind former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision for Africa. Raila, who is already in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is among the top contenders for the prestigious position, facing off against Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar in the high-stakes race.
Waiguru lauded Raila’s dedication to Pan-Africanism and regional integration, emphasizing his vast experience in governance and diplomacy. She noted that his impact on Africa has been significant and wished him success as he vies for the AUC chairmanship.
“Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, your leadership, dedication to Pan-Africanism, and commitment to regional integration have left a lasting impact. I extend my best wishes as you seek to serve Africa as African Union Commission Chairperson,” Waiguru said in a statement on Friday. “I am confident your experience will drive the continent’s development forward. Wishing you all the best, Baba.”
The AU Commission chairperson election is scheduled for Saturday, with 55 AU member states participating in the secret ballot. To win, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority, translating to at least 33 votes.
Earlier, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also endorsed Raila’s bid, describing him as the best candidate to lead Africa into the future. According to Gachagua, Raila’s global outlook and unwavering advocacy for African interests make him the most suitable leader for the AU Commission.
“Kenya’s finest, Raila Odinga, is undoubtedly the best bet for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Africa deserves the best,” Gachagua stated. “As a continent, we need a Raila Odinga character to gel the Anglophone and Francophone selves towards the continent of the future.”
Gachagua further asserted that Raila’s victory in Addis Ababa would be a significant milestone for Africa’s unity and progress. He emphasized that Raila’s leadership would foster collaboration among African nations and drive forward key development agendas.
“Raila Odinga’s win will be good and progressive for Africa. His victory will be a win for Kenya, our motherland,” Gachagua added.
With both Waiguru and Gachagua, two prominent figures in Kenya’s political landscape, publicly supporting Raila’s candidacy, the former Prime Minister heads into Saturday’s election with strong backing from home. As the continent awaits the results, Raila’s leadership credentials and vision for Africa remain key talking points in the AU corridors of power.
