East African countries rally behind Raila's bid for AUC leadership

The event was attended by Heads of State and dignitaries from across the continent, reflecting broad support for Odinga’s candidacy.

Among the nations backing Odinga's bid are several East African Community (EAC) member states, including Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and South Sudan. 

As Odinga exits the Kenyan political scene, his candidature will represent not only Kenya, but the entire East African region in the upcoming February election to succeed Moussa Faki, the Chadian veteran politician who has been AUC Chair since 2017.

The launch was attended by EAC Chair and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Uganda's Yoweri Museveni, Tanzania's Samia Suluhu, Somalia's Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Burundi's Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca, and Rwanda's Former Rwandan Defence Minister, James Kabarebe. 

Kabarebe, who represents President Paul Kagame, praised Odinga's credentials, claiming that he possesses the leadership qualities required to guide Africa through its current challenges and towards unity, peace, and prosperity.

 “Raila is a respected leader with a commitment to democracy, development, and the African cause,” Kabarebe remarked. 

“His ability to bring people together, advance the development agenda, and stand firm in adversity makes him an exceptional candidate for the role.”

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu lauded Odinga for his significant contributions to the establishment of the African Union and the progress achieved since, including the Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area. 

President Suluhu reiterated Tanzania’s full support for Odinga's bid, while also stressing the need to complete institutional reforms to enhance accountability and maintain unity within the AU. 

“It is with these priorities in mind that the government of the United Republic of Tanzania endorses Raila’s candidature for the chairmanship of the African Union,” Suluhu stated.

Burundian Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca also voiced Burundi’s support for Odinga’s candidacy, emphasizing the deep historical ties between the two nations. 

“The candidate before us is a Pan-Africanist with an impressive resume, making him well-qualified for the African Union Chairmanship,” Ndirakobuca affirmed. 

“Burundi extends its best wishes for his campaign and the upcoming elections in 2025.”

President Salva Kiir of South Sudan commended Odinga for his unwavering commitment to African prosperity, describing him as a steadfast Pan-Africanist. 

President Kiir reaffirmed Sudan’s support for Odinga’s bid and urged the region to rally behind Odinga as their candidate.

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, speaking at the unveiling, reflected on his longstanding friendship with Odinga and expressed confidence in his leadership abilities.

Obasanjo emphasized the critical juncture Africa faces, where unity and shared responsibility are essential to overcoming challenges such as poverty, insecurity, and instability amid global conflicts. 

He called on Africa to support Odinga’s bid for AUC leadership as the continent navigates these pressing issues.

In his speech President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reflected on his long-term involvement in African struggles, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis in political management. 

He also emphasized the importance of patriotism and Pan-Africanism for the prosperity of Africa, using historical examples of African victories against external forces and the subsequent downfall due to internal strife. 

"Munisamehe maeno mingi, I'm here to support Raila's candidature," President Museveni said.