President Ruto commits to support new AUC Chair after Raila’s loss

President William Ruto has expressed Kenya’s support to newly elected African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and his deputy Selma Haddadi.

Mahamoud won the AUC top seat in seven rounds after beating out stiff competition from Kenya’s candidate Raila Odinga.

Ruto, in a statement posted on X, thanked fellow African Heads of State for according Odinga a listening ear during the campaign season ahead of the final Saturday vote.

“While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for according him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation,” he noted.

“To their Excellencies Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, I extend my sincere congratulations. You have the trust of the AU Assembly, and Kenya pledges her full support to you as you steer the Africa Union Commission to the next level.”

He added: “This election was not about individuals or nations, it was about Africa’s future. That future remains bright and, together, we will continue working for a united, prosperous, and influential Africa on the global stage.”

Odinga has since also conceded defeat in the race and congratulated the new AUC Chair Mahamoud, noting that he is now looking forward to “coming back home.”