Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially endorsed former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, praising him as the best candidate to steer the continent forward. However, Odinga faces stiff competition, particularly from Madagascar’s Richard Randriamarato, who has secured the backing of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Gachagua: Raila is Africa’s Best Bet
In a statement on his social media platforms, Gachagua described Odinga as a visionary leader with a strong Pan-African spirit and the ability to unify the continent. He stated, “Kenya’s finest, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, is undoubtedly the best bet for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Africa deserves the best. There is no doubt about Raila’s worldview and championship for African people.”
Gachagua also emphasized Odinga’s ability to bridge the Francophone and Anglophone divides, a key challenge in Africa’s political landscape. He remarked, “As a continent, we need a Raila Odinga character to gel the Anglophone and Francophone selves towards the continent of the future.”
Highlighting Odinga’s long-standing commitment to Pan-Africanism, Gachagua added, “His win in Addis Ababa imprints his quest for the Pan-African spirit he has lived and championed. Raila Odinga’s win will be good and progressive for Africa. His victory will be a win for Kenya, our motherland.”
Who Supports Raila? The Growing List of Endorsements
Odinga’s bid has gained momentum with support from several African leaders, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The Kenyan government, led by President William Ruto, has also thrown its weight behind him, with Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi spearheading diplomatic efforts.
Odinga has secured key endorsements, including the official backing of the Kenyan government, strong support from Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, and reported interest from several West African leaders within the ECOWAS bloc. However, his biggest challenge comes from the SADC region, which has rallied behind Madagascar’s Richard Randriamarato.
SADC’s Opposition: The Biggest Hurdle for Raila?
The Southern African Development Community (SADC), comprising 16 member states, has officially endorsed Randriamarato. The bloc has urged its members to vote as a unit, arguing that southern Africa deserves a turn at the AU’s top leadership. Alongside Randriamarato, Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouff is also in the race, further complicating Odinga’s path to victory.
A diplomatic source told The Daily Whistle, “Raila has strong backing from East and West Africa, but SADC’s endorsement of Randriamarato makes this a tight race. North African votes will be crucial in deciding the winner.”
What This Means for Kenya’s Influence in Africa
If Odinga secures the AU chairmanship, it would be a historic moment for Kenya, marking the first time a Kenyan has led the AU Commission. Analysts believe this would boost Kenya’s diplomatic influence in regional security and peacekeeping efforts. It would enhance trade agreements and economic policies. It would also aid in infrastructure development across Africa.
Dr. Isaac Kiprotich, a political analyst, explains, “Raila’s victory would position Kenya as a key decision-maker in Africa’s economic and security policies. It would also enhance Nairobi’s status as a diplomatic hub.”
A High-Stakes Campaign Across Africa
Odinga has been actively touring African capitals, meeting with heads of state and foreign ministers to secure crucial votes. Recent stops include Nigeria, where he met with President Bola Tinubu, Ethiopia, where he engaged AU delegates in Addis Ababa, South Africa, where he sought support from key SADC members, and Ghana, where he held talks with ECOWAS leaders. His team is now focusing on securing endorsements from North African nations, which could tip the balance in his favor.
Final Showdown on February 15, 2025
The election, set to take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 15, 2025, will determine whether Odinga’s Pan-African vision will secure him the AU’s top job. With strong support from East and West Africa but fierce opposition from SADC, the outcome remains uncertain.
Will Raila Odinga emerge victorious and lead the African Union into a new era? The answer will be known in just a few days.
Do you want to be published? Email info@thedailywhistle.co.ke or Whatsapp 0721 930 260
