Raila right leader for African Union Commission, says PS Sing’Oei
The Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, has described Raila Odinga as a ‘consummate negotiator, a strong leader, and a visionary,’ ahead of the African Union Commission (AUC) elections.
In an interview, PS Sing’Oei emphasized that the AUC requires a tested leader who can shape the office and give it the necessary gravitas, even as he highlighted Odinga’s suitability for the position of the AUC chairperson.
“Both Kenya and Prime Minister Odinga are believers in the African Renaissance—an Africa that is rising, self-confident, and ready to assert its interests more strongly,” he stated.
He further explained that President William Ruto was deliberate in selecting Odinga for the role, recognizing the need for a visionary leader who can navigate both the political and technical complexities of the position.
“Raila has the experience, the diplomatic acumen, and the stature to shape the AU and give it gravitas. His leadership will not just be a bureaucratic role but one that drives the African agenda forward,” he added.
Dr. Sing’Oei likened Odinga’s leadership to Kenya’s globally recognized brands, such as Kenya Airways and M-Pesa, calling his candidacy “a positive brand that will attract goodwill to the country.”
The PS also noted that Eastern Africa has not held the AUC chairmanship since the transition from the Organization of African Unity 25 years ago. He highlighted Kenya’s role in regional diplomacy, economic leadership, and peace negotiations, arguing that the time is right for an East African leader to take charge of the AU.
According to the PS, Raila’s candidacy is expected to garner regional and continental support, reinforcing Kenya’s position as a key player in Africa’s global representation.
The former Prime Minister is set to face off Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar and Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti in the elections set to be held this month.
The three candidates are seeking to succeed the outgoing Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat who has served two terms since 14 March 2017.
The new chair will be elected at the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in February 2025 by the AU Assembly via a secret ballot.
Past chairpersons have hailed from western, central and southern regions of the African Union. The AU Executive Council has asserted the right of the East African region to produce the next chairperson and North Africa is therefore vie for the deputy chairperson post.
The member states of the African Union are the 55 sovereign states that have ratified or acceded to the Constitutive Act of the African Union to become member states to the African Union.
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/raila-au-bid-state-unveils-secretariat-to-clinch-seat/