Nelson Havi: AU job support is a deliberate attempt to remove Raila from Kenya's politics

According to Havi, the government's bold move to support the opposition boss may be motivated by the need to cripple his political limbs.

"Fundamentally what many people may not realise is there is a deliberate attempt to remove Raila Odinga from the political environment in Kenya which may be good because for almost five electoral cycles he's been the second alternative," he said on Tuesday while appearing on Citizen TV.

That notwithstanding, the lawyer lauded Odinga for the illustrious leadership he has showcased over his decades-long political career in the nation, expressing confidence that he will clinch the continental job.

In his view, Odinga's exit will finally pave the way for new players in the nation's political scene to take over his mantle.

"He has been a good statesman in Kenya it is now a high opportunity for him to be a statesman in Africa," said Havi.

"It is high time in Kenya we had a new lad to offer an alternative form of leadership at the helm of the presidency in Kenya."

Odinga is set to be officially unveiled as Kenya's candidate for the AU job at State House today, Tuesday 27. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced in a communiqué that Heads of State from Eastern Africa are expected to attend.

Odinga's stab at the position is however under threat as he will need a magical shot in the arm from other African leaders to beat Djibouti's Minister of Foreign Affairs Mahmoud Youssouf, a candidate from Mauritius, and another from the island of Madagascar. 

Somalia’s former deputy prime minister Fawzia Yusuf, who had thrown her hat in the ring, withdrew her bid on August 9 and threw her weight behind Odinga.

In May 2024, the AU Executive Council ratified a decision to have Eastern Africa produce the next chairperson while the Deputy Chairperson to be elected from Northern Africa.

The elections to find the next occupant at the AU top job will take place in 2025 as Chad's Moussa Faki, the current chairperson, will exit after his two-term tenure.