Fri Nov 01 22:41:46 UTC 2024: ## Raila Odinga Faces Stiff Competition in Race for African Union Commission Chair

**Nairobi, Kenya** – Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid to become the next African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson is facing both international and domestic challenges. While President William Ruto has publicly endorsed Odinga, launching his campaign with a show of support from several African leaders, Odinga faces a formidable opponent in Djibouti’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

Odinga’s domestic support has also been met with mixed reactions, with some Kenyans expressing their opposition to his candidacy. Critics argue that Odinga has betrayed his followers after joining the current government and therefore does not deserve the AUC position. This has sparked debate on social media, with some Kenyans defending their right to support a different candidate, while others criticize the lack of support for a fellow Kenyan.

The controversy surrounding Odinga’s candidacy has highlighted the division within Kenyan society. Some argue that Odinga’s age and perceived lack of action on recent abductions in Kenya are hindering his chances. Others, like Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, have passionately defended Odinga, highlighting his experience and achievements in international diplomacy and infrastructure development.

The upcoming elections for the AUC chairperson are scheduled for February 2025 during the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. While Odinga has secured support from several East African leaders, the outcome of the election remains uncertain amidst fierce competition and internal dissent.

Read More

Fri Nov 01 22:41:46 UTC 2024: ## Kenya’s Raila Odinga Faces Stiff Competition in Race for African Union Chair

**Nairobi, Kenya** – Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, is vying for the position of African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, facing a tough challenge from Djibouti’s former Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Odinga’s bid, launched by President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi, has garnered support from several East African leaders, including Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

However, Odinga’s bid has sparked controversy within Kenya, with some citizens expressing disapproval and questioning his suitability for the position. Critics cite his recent political maneuvers, particularly joining the government, as a betrayal of his supporters.

Social media platforms have been abuzz with debates on Odinga’s candidacy, with some users highlighting his age (79) and his silence regarding recent abductions in Kenya. Others, such as lawyer Miguna Miguna, have declared Odinga “the worst candidate for any leadership position.”

Despite the internal opposition, Kenyan Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi has vigorously campaigned for Odinga at the recent COMESA summit in Burundi. Mudavadi emphasized Odinga’s “exceptional diplomatic and advocacy skills” and his successful track record in mobilizing support for infrastructure projects during his tenure as AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa.

The AUC elections are scheduled for February 2025 during the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. While Odinga’s campaign has received support from regional leaders, the ultimate outcome remains uncertain.

Read More