In a surprising turn of events, Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position, Raila Odinga, has declared that the race is not a “do or die” affair for him. Speaking at a recent event in Bondo constituency, Odinga emphasized his readiness to accept the election outcome, stating that if he does not clinch the chairperson position, he is prepared to return to his activities in Kenya.
This statement comes as the election date approaches, with African heads of state set to convene in Addis Ababa on February 15 and 16 to elect a successor to the outgoing chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat.
Odinga faces competition from Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, and former Madagascar Foreign Minister, Richard Randriamandrato. The winner must secure a two-thirds majority, equating to 33 out of 49 votes, due to the suspension of six member states from AU activities.
Despite the high stakes, Odinga’s campaign team remains optimistic. Elkanah Odembo, co-chair of Odinga’s campaign secretariat, revealed that they have secured the support of 28 nations so far. However, he acknowledged that there is still work to be done to achieve the required majority.
The campaign strategy includes continued high-level diplomatic engagements, with plans for Odinga and President William Ruto to visit more heads of state, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi intensifying interactions with foreign affairs ministers.
Odinga’s candidacy has garnered significant attention, with various African nations endorsing his bid. Notably, countries such as Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Togo, Ghana, Mauritius, Guinea Bissau, Gambia, Algeria, and Senegal have signaled their support. Additionally, leaders from the East African Community, including Tanzania, Uganda, and South Sudan, attended his candidacy’s unveiling ceremony, indicating regional backing.
As the election draws near, Odinga’s acceptance of a potential defeat underscores his commitment to democratic principles and the unity of the African continent. His approach reflects a statesmanlike demeanor, prioritizing the collective interests of Africa over personal ambition.
Regardless of the outcome, Odinga’s participation in the race has already contributed to elevating discussions about the future direction of the African Union and the importance of leadership that embraces both experience and a vision for the continent’s advancement.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on Addis Ababa as the AU member states cast their votes, determining the next leader to steer the commission towards achieving its goals for a prosperous and integrated Africa.
