Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson, Raila Odinga, will go head-to-head with three formidable opponents in a televised debate tonight, as the race for the continental top job enters its final phase. The event, dubbed the Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate, will be broadcast live across Africa from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM East Africa Time.
Odinga will face Anil Gayan of Mauritius, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti, and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar in the first live debate featuring AUC chairperson candidates since their declarations to succeed Chad’s Moussa Faki.
Showcasing Vision for Africa’s Transformation
The debate provides a platform for the candidates to outline their vision for leading Africa’s transformation and implementing key mandates, including Agenda 2063, the continent’s strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development. It also offers African citizens and stakeholders a chance to directly engage the candidates through questions.
According to the African Union (AU), the event will be conducted by two moderators who will present questions in French and English, with simultaneous translation available in the AU’s six working languages: English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Kiswahili. The moderators will also compile and relay questions from the public.
Viewers across Africa can tune in via dedicated pop-up channels on DStv Africa and national broadcasters in respective countries.
Kenya’s Confidence in Raila’s Leadership
Raila’s campaign team exudes confidence in his readiness to articulate his vision and highlight Kenya’s strengths. Elkanah Odembo, Raila’s campaign head, emphasized that the former Prime Minister is well-prepared for this pivotal engagement.
“Candidate RAO is preparing, and we are confident that Africa will see that he truly stands head and shoulders above the competitors,” Odembo told The Star.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has also affirmed Kenya’s commitment to leading on the continental stage, expressing optimism about Raila’s prospects. “Indeed, Kenya’s commitment to strengthening this leadership role is demonstrated by its candidature for the AUC,” Mudavadi said during Kenya’s 60 Years of Diplomatic Journey celebrations in Nairobi earlier this week.
Focus on Agenda 2063 and Leadership Competencies
The debate will require candidates to demonstrate their grasp of Africa’s pressing challenges and their strategies for addressing them. They are expected to share innovative approaches to policies on economic integration, security, climate change, and governance.
Raila’s proponents argue that his extensive political experience and pan-African credentials uniquely position him for the role. Over the years, he has championed regional infrastructure projects and peace initiatives, giving him a broad perspective on Africa’s needs.
Historical Significance of Mjadala Afrika
Mjadala Afrika, first held in 2016, represents a significant step in democratizing leadership at the AU level, allowing African citizens to scrutinize and engage with candidates. The last debate in 2020 was canceled due to the absence of contenders against incumbent Moussa Faki.
This year’s debate is particularly significant, as it reflects the increasing interest and competition for the AUC chairpersonship. The February 2024 election will determine the next leader tasked with steering the AU through a critical phase of transformation.
Kenya’s Continental Ambitions
For Kenya, a victory would cement its role as a leader in African diplomacy and governance. Raila’s bid reflects Kenya’s broader ambition to contribute to the AU’s efforts in fostering unity, economic growth, and sustainable development.
As Raila steps onto the stage tonight, millions across Africa will be watching closely, eager to see how Kenya’s candidate matches up against his competitors in vision, substance, and leadership acumen.
