Ruto Reaffirms Support for Raila’s AU Chairmanship Bid Amidst Rising Competition
President William Ruto reiterated his endorsement of Raila Odinga for the African Union Commission Chairmanship on Thursday, May 16.
During President Museveni’s two-day visit to Kenya, Ruto expressed gratitude for Uganda’s backing of Raila’s candidacy.
“I have conveyed to President Museveni and the Ugandan people the gratitude of Kenyans from diverse backgrounds for Uganda’s support of the Kenyan candidate for the AUC Chairmanship. I assured him of our unwavering confidence that Raila will provide competent leadership at the commission,” Ruto affirmed.
While the President has persistently sought support for Raila’s candidacy, competition for the top position at the AU has escalated.
Seychelles introduced a new contender for the role on Wednesday, endorsing Vincent Meriton, their former Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister.
Meanwhile, Djibouti and Somalia have also presented candidates, creating challenges for Kenya’s opposition leader in his campaign.
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Djibouti declared on April 9th that it was nominating its Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, for the position.
Asserting their confidence in their minister’s capabilities, the East African nation emphasized his ample experience in managing the responsibilities of the role.
“Djibouti expressed confidence in the abilities of Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, citing his extensive experience and diplomatic expertise,” stated the communication.
Meanwhile, Somalia nominated its former Foreign Minister Fawzia Adam as a qualified diplomat for the top position at the AU.
In another development potentially complicating Raila’s bid, Somalia unveiled a strategy aimed at securing victory for their candidate.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre formed an 8-member team tasked with devising a strategy and advocating for Fawzia’s candidacy against Raila Odinga, who is also vying for the same position as the Azimio Leader.
Ruto Reaffirms Support for Raila’s AU Chairmanship Bid Amidst Rising Competition