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President Museveni shared his presence and support on X, stating, “I am in Kenya today, attending the launch of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission Chairmanship bid which we support.”
The launch of Odinga's campaign marks the beginning of his official run for the AUC chairperson position, ahead of the February 2025 elections to replace the outgoing chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat. Hosted by Kenyan President William Ruto, the event has attracted high-profile attendance from various East African Community (EAC) leaders.
These include EAC Chairman and South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Rwandan State Minister for Foreign Affairs James Kabarebe. Burundi’s Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca is also in attendance, further emphasizing the widespread support within the EAC for Odinga’s bid.
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President Yoweri Museveni
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The presence of influential former African leaders such as Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania and Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria underscores the continental support for Odinga's campaign. Their involvement signals the broader interest and backing from various quarters of the African continent for a united leadership front.
Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairmanship comes at a time when regional and continental solidarity is being promoted as essential for the stability and prosperity of Africa. If successful, Odinga would be expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the AU's policies and strategies over the coming years.
His campaign will see him contesting against notable figures, including Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, former Mauritius Foreign Minister Anil Kumarsingh Gayan, and Richard James Randriamandrato, a former Foreign Minister from Madagascar.
The launch event at State House not only marks a significant step in Odinga’s political journey but also highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among African nations. President Museveni's presence and endorsement add weight to Odinga's campaign, reflecting the importance of the AUC leadership in fostering continental development and integration. As the campaign progresses, Odinga’s ability to garner support from across the African Union will be critical in shaping his path to the chairmanship.