Opposition leader Raila Odinga’s aspiration to become the next chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) has received significant endorsements from Guinea Bissau and Angola.
Angola’s ambassador to Kenya, Sianga Abilio, affirmed Angola’s support for Raila’s candidacy during Angola’s 22nd anniversary of peace and national reconciliation event in Nairobi. Abilio assured that Angola would stand by Kenya and support Raila’s bid for the AUC chairmanship.
Earlier, the President of Guinea Bissau also pledged support for Kenya’s candidature for the AUC Chairperson position for the 2025-2028 term. President Ruto of Guinea Bissau emphasized Kenya’s role in promoting the Pan-African agenda and expressed optimism in working with all member states to achieve Agenda 2063.
Raila’s bid gained further traction with Ghana’s endorsement during President Ruto’s recent state visit to the country. These endorsements underscore Kenya’s leading role in advancing the Pan-African agenda, emphasizing independence, sovereignty, peace, security, development, prosperity, sustainability, and climate action.
Raila’s candidacy aligns with the resolution by the African Union Executive Council, stipulating that candidates for the AU Commission chairmanship would be nominated by Eastern African regional states. The resolution, adopted on March 15, 2024, follows AU statutes and decisions of the Assembly of Heads of States and Government.
During President Ruto’s state visit to Guinea-Bissau, both countries committed to enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade. They pledged to implement the Memorandum of Understanding establishing a Joint Commission for Cooperation signed in 2022, aiming to boost trade volumes through collaboration between their private sectors.
Raila’s candidacy for the AUC Chairperson position is set for the February 2025 elections, with the potential to serve until 2028. His endorsements reflect growing confidence in his leadership capabilities and commitment to advancing Africa’s collective interests on the global stage.
