Africa

President Kagame endorses Raila Odinga's bid for AU Commission job

Kenya's Opposition leader Raila Odinga and Rwanda President Paul Kagame. (X/Raila Odinga)

By Eastleigh Voice Reporter | Tuesday, March 12, 2024

The AUC chairperson position is set to become vacant next year, with the incumbent, Chad's Moussa Faki.

President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has publicly endorsed Raila Odinga's candidacy for the chairperson position of the African Union Commission.

The endorsement follows a recent meeting between the two leaders in Kigali, where Kagame expressed his support for Odinga.

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“It’s no secret. I told him Rwanda would support him. I wish him well. Not only will we support him to be there, but also when he is there, we will support him for Africa to succeed,” President Kagame was quoted by Nation.Africa

President Kagame commended Raila for his commendable performance during his tenure as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development.

"He (Raila) did a good job at that. He had a full grasp of it," Kagame acknowledged, recognizing Raila's expertise and dedication to the continent's infrastructure development.

In February, Raila, 79, announced his candidacy for the Chairperson position of the AUC and immediately received endorsement from former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo. Obasanjo emphasized the importance of having a candidate from Eastern Africa at the helm of the AU Commission.

Last month, Odinga’s political rival, President William Ruto together with Yoweri Museveni of Uganda endorsed his bid

The AUC chairperson position is set to become vacant next year, with the incumbent, Chad's Moussa Faki, concluding his two-term tenure.

The chairperson serves as the chief executive officer and legal representative of the AU, overseeing administrative and financial matters, promoting the AU's objectives, and engaging with stakeholders.

Raila's extensive networks within the continental body, developed during his tenure as AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018 to February 2023, position him as a formidable candidate for the AU Commission chairperson role.