In Summary:
- Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship receives a significant boost from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, thanks to President William Ruto’s diplomacy.
- Algeria pledges financial support for Kenya’s peace mission to Haiti and assistance for its agricultural sector.
Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga’s campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship has received a significant boost following a diplomatic meeting between President William Ruto and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
In a statement released on Friday, June 14, President Ruto announced that President Tebboune has pledged Algeria’s support for Kenya’s candidature for the AUC chairmanship. The two leaders held discussions on the sidelines of the G7 meeting in Apulia, Italy.
“I have held a discussion with President Tebboune Abdelmadjid of Algeria, on the sidelines of the G7 meeting in Apulia, Italy. He has pledged support for Kenya’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Kenya and Algeria share a common stance on reforms within the African Union and the International Financial Architecture, aiming for greater equity and inclusion,” the statement read.
Additionally, President Ruto revealed that Algeria has committed to providing financial support for Kenya’s peace mission to Haiti.
“Kenya is grateful to the government of Algeria for its support in the agricultural sector, particularly through the provision of fertilizer. We also appreciate Algeria’s financial support for the Kenya-led UN security mission in Haiti,” Ruto added.
Raila Odinga aims to succeed Moussa Faki, who is currently serving his second and final term as AUC chairman. The election for the next chairman will take place in 2025 during an AU Summit.
On Wednesday, June 5, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reaffirmed the Kenyan government’s commitment to supporting Raila’s candidacy. Mudavadi praised the former Prime Minister as a competent leader with the necessary experience for the role.
“We support Raila because he is highly competent, and this aligns with Kenya’s national interests and the broader interests of Africa. This is not about local politics; it is about positioning Kenya to lead within the African Union. Raila possesses the requisite experience for this leadership role,” Mudavadi explained.