- Kenya remains optimistic about Raila Odinga’s chances despite SADC endorsing Madagascar’s H.E. Richard Randriamandrato.
- Odinga has campaigned vigorously, securing support from over 40 African Heads of State and full endorsement from the East African Community (EAC).
- President William Ruto has rallied support for Odinga, aligning his AU reform agenda with Odinga’s vision.
- Thousands of Kenyans in Ethiopia have shown solidarity, traveling at their own expense to support Odinga’s candidacy.
- SADC’s 16-member bloc, including South Africa, Angola, and Tanzania, poses a challenge, but Kenya remains confident in Odinga’s experience and pan-African vision.
Kenya Pushes Forward Amid SADC’s Strategic Move
Kenya remains steadfast in its bid to secure Raila Odinga’s victory for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, even as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) backs Madagascar’s candidate, H.E. Richard Randriamandrato.
Odinga’s campaign has been aggressive and strategic, engaging over 40 African Heads of State and receiving full backing from the East African Community (EAC). His broad support reflects the confidence of many African leaders in his ability to drive AU reforms, economic transformation, and unity.
Ruto’s Full Backing for Odinga
President William Ruto has personally championed Odinga’s candidacy, aligning it with his AU reform efforts. As the AU Champion on Institutional Reforms, Ruto sees Odinga as the ideal candidate to strengthen the AU’s effectiveness.
A Raila-led AU would complement Ruto’s vision of a more people-centered, responsive, and efficient organization, reinforcing Kenya’s strategic role on the continent.
Kenyan Diaspora Rallies in Addis Ababa
In an extraordinary show of patriotism, thousands of Kenyans, including members of the diaspora in Ethiopia, have gathered in Addis Ababa to show solidarity with Kenya’s delegation.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura dismissed claims of an oversized delegation, clarifying that Kenyans traveled voluntarily at their own expense—demonstrating unity and national pride.
SADC’s Influence: A Hurdle for Odinga?
SADC’s endorsement of Madagascar’s candidate poses a significant challenge. With 16 member states, including South Africa, Angola, and Tanzania, the regional bloc represents a powerful voting group within the AU.
However, Kenya remains confident that Odinga’s pan-African vision, leadership experience, and transformative agenda will resonate with AU member states, ensuring a competitive race for the AU’s top seat.
