President William Ruto has rallied Kenyans to back former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in his bid to become the next African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson, emphasizing that the position is a national and continental opportunity.
Speaking during a church service in Dagoretti North, Nairobi County, Ruto stressed the significance of unity and collective support for Odinga’s candidacy. He framed the campaign as a national responsibility, urging Kenyans to look beyond political affiliations.
“Remember our leader Raila Odinga as we wish him to be the AUC chairperson. That position is not his, it is for the continent and ours as a nation,” Ruto remarked, calling for goodwill from all Kenyans.
Addressing critics, Ruto expressed disapproval of those questioning Odinga’s suitability, stating, “You have not vied for the seat, you are not competing with him, why are you censuring him? Let us have goodwill for Kenyans.”
Odinga, who has consistently portrayed confidence in his bid, acknowledged that the race is not a matter of life and death. “If I do not clinch the position, I will return to continue serving Kenya,” he remarked in a recent statement.
The election for the AUC chairperson is scheduled for February 2025, as Chad’s Moussa Faki prepares to step down after completing his two-term tenure. Odinga is set to face stiff competition from Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s former Finance Minister Richard Randriamandrato.
Odinga’s campaign promises to elevate Kenya’s profile in African diplomacy. Ruto highlighted that a victory for Odinga would position Kenya strategically in continental decision-making and foster stronger regional ties.
As the countdown to the elections begins, Ruto’s call for national unity may test the country’s ability to rise above political divides and rally behind a common cause. Should Odinga succeed, his leadership at the AUC could pave the way for increased integration, development, and stability across the continent.
With the stakes high, Kenyans now look toward February with anticipation, as the AUC race becomes not just Odinga’s pursuit but a collective aspiration for the nation.
