Prime Cabinet Secretary Dr. Musalia Mudavadi (right) and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga briefed journalists on Wednesday, outlining Kenya’s campaign strategy for Odinga’s candidacy to lead the African Union Commission as its next Chairperson. PHOTO | Courtesy
In Summary:
- Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga jointly unveiled Kenya’s campaign strategy for Odinga’s candidacy as the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
- Mudavadi highlighted Odinga’s extensive experience and Pan-African vision as ideal for the AUC leadership role, outlining plans for a campaign secretariat, member state outreach, and a televised public debate involving candidates ahead of the February 2025 elections.
In a joint press conference on Wednesday, Mudavadi and Odinga unveiled Kenya’s roadmap for Odinga’s candidacy as the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Mudavadi expressed Kenya’s resolute commitment to Odinga’s bid, lauding the longtime opposition leader as an embodiment of Pan-African ideals and visionary leadership abilities well-suited for the AUC’s mandate.
He highlighted Odinga’s extensive experience and ethos aligning with the commission’s values.
The PCS thanked President William Ruto for fully endorsing Odinga’s candidacy, crediting the Kenyan leader’s engagement across Africa as elevating the nation’s standing on continental affairs.
With the East African region nominating a candidate, Mudavadi underscored the importance of meticulous planning and outreach.
He outlined strategies including establishing a campaign secretariat, engagement with AU member states, and facilitating a televised public debate involving candidates months ahead of February 2025 elections.
“Kenya is firmly convinced that our candidate, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, possesses the credentials and the fervor to champion Africa’s interests on the global stage,” Mudavadi asserted.
Emphasizing unity, the PCS stressed the AU’s imperative role in proactively overcoming obstacles hampering Africa’s progress.
He advocated for reforms to enhance the continent’s representation in global decision-making bodies.
Mudavadi closed by affirming Kenya’s full backing for Odinga’s “noble endeavor” vital for propelling Africa forward under transformative leadership.
The unified messaging positioned Kenya’s bid as representing broader aspirations for continental solidarity and development under strategic AU stewardship.
With government support, Odinga’s candidacy encapsulates the nation’s ambitions for shaping a more prosperous future for Africa.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga ,leader of ODM party, speaks during a media address at the office of Prime Cabinet Secretary Dr. Musalia Mudavadi on June 5, 2024, regarding his candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairpersonship. (Photo | Courtesy)