Raila Odinga’s pursuit of the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship has gathered significant momentum, following President William Ruto’s concerted efforts to bolster the bid. This comes nearly nine months after President Ruto secured Zimbabwe’s endorsement for Raila’s candidacy, a strategic move that followed the African Union Executive Council’s unanimous decision on March 15, 2024, to encourage candidates from the Eastern Africa region for the prestigious position.
In his earlier comments, President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to the Pan-African agenda, emphasizing the nation’s determination to contribute to the continent’s growth and development. He underscored Kenya and Zimbabwe’s continued cooperation on a range of issues—spanning bilateral, regional, and continental concerns—all in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“We are confident that Kenya and Zimbabwe will continue to collaborate and support each other, particularly within the African Union framework, as we work towards a more integrated and prosperous continent,” President Ruto stated during his bilateral talks with Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
During their meeting, the two leaders signed a series of nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aiming to strengthen ties in various sectors, including transport, infrastructure, health, education, defense, trade, and investment. These agreements signal a deepening of the strategic partnership between Kenya and Zimbabwe, with President Mnangagwa emphasizing the importance of optimizing the potential for greater investment between the two nations.
President Ruto has been a vocal supporter of Raila Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairmanship, recently praising Raila’s exceptional track record as a pan-African leader. Speaking at the Piny Luo Cultural Festival in Siaya County on January 2, 2025, President Ruto expressed his confidence that Raila’s leadership would help foster peace, resolve conflicts, and further the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA).
“We are confident that Raila’s leadership will unlock the true potential of Africa and guide us towards a brighter and more prosperous future,” Ruto stated, as he reiterated his support for Raila’s candidacy.
As the African Union prepares for the upcoming elections, Raila’s candidacy is gaining significant traction, bolstered by endorsements from key African nations and a robust campaign aimed at advancing the continent’s collective interests. With this renewed support from leaders like President Ruto, Raila’s bid for the AUC chairmanship is poised for greater success in the coming months.
