Kenya Nominates Raila Odinga for African Union Commission Chairperson: A Historic Move

Kenya has officially nominated Raila Odinga for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). The announcement was made by the State Department of Foreign Affairs, signaling a bold move by Kenya as it seeks to secure a top leadership role within the African Union (AU). This nomination will be contested during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, scheduled for February 2025 in Addis Ababa.

The formal submission of Odinga’s candidature was overseen by Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs. He was accompanied by Ambassador George Orina, Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union. The delegation also included prominent figures such as Professor Makau Mutua and Ambassador Elkanah Odembo. The nomination process adhered to the required protocol, with the submission presented to Ambassador Raj Busgeeeth of Mauritius, the Dean of the Eastern Region, and the Office of the Legal Counsel of the African Union.

Kenya’s nomination is noteworthy as it aligns with the principle of inter-regional rotation, which designates the Eastern region to submit candidates for the AUC Chairperson role. Despite the historical significance of Kenya’s participation, it is worth noting that since the Organization of African Unity (OAU) was founded in 1963, and its subsequent transformation into the African Union, no Kenyan has held the position of Secretary-General or Chairperson of the AUC.

The State Department emphasized that the decision to nominate Raila Odinga is based on his distinguished Pan-African credentials and extensive networks across the continent. Odinga’s career is marked by significant achievements, including his tenure as Prime Minister of Kenya, various ministerial positions, and his role as the High Representative of the AUC Chairperson on Infrastructure. His experience as an election observer and peace mediator in several African countries further underscores his qualifications for the role.

Odinga’s campaign for the AUC Chairperson position is centered around several key priorities that address pressing continental challenges. These include:

African Integration and Infrastructure Development: Strengthening regional integration and advancing infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity and economic growth across the continent.
Economic Transformation: Promoting economic reforms and strategies to stimulate sustainable development and reduce poverty.
Enhancing Intra-African Trade: Increasing trade between African countries to boost economic collaboration and self-reliance.
Financial Independence: Advocating for financial strategies that reduce dependency on external aid and promote internal resource mobilization.
Gender Equity and Equality: Addressing gender disparities and promoting equal opportunities for women and marginalized groups.
Agricultural Transformation: Supporting agricultural initiatives to ensure food security and improve rural livelihoods.
Climate Action: Implementing measures to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
Peace and Security: Enhancing efforts to resolve conflicts and ensure stability across the continent.
Youth Empowerment: Fostering opportunities and platforms for African youth to contribute to the continent’s development.

The State Department also highlighted Kenya’s commitment to the African Union, noting its consistent support for African solutions to African problems, financial contributions to AU initiatives, and leadership in peace and security. Kenya’s nomination of Raila Odinga represents not just a bid for a significant leadership position but also a testament to the country’s ongoing dedication to advancing Africa’s priorities and aspirations.

As Kenya seeks the support of all AU member states, the upcoming election will be a critical moment for the continent, with Raila Odinga’s candidacy offering a promising opportunity for transformative leadership within the African Union.