Ruto Taps Sing’Oei to Lead Team of 7 Campaigning for Raila’s AUC Chair Bid(List)
President William Ruto has introduced a plan to elevate Raila Odinga to the top position at the African Union Commission (AUC), signaling a major shift in Kenya’s diplomatic strategy.
Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, will lead Odinga’s campaign for the AUC Chairperson role. This appointment marks Kenya’s official backing of Odinga’s candidacy, following several months of behind-the-scenes efforts.
Ruto disclosed that Odinga’s campaign has received support from at least seven nations. This includes endorsements from African leaders such as Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC, and five presidents from other East African Community (EAC) countries.
The campaign was formally launched at State House in Nairobi on Tuesday, August 27. It will be managed by a five-member team, each representing a different African region, a strategy aimed at securing broad support across the continent.
Elkanah Odembo, a former Kenyan ambassador to the United States, will co-chair the campaign committee. Odembo, along with other experienced diplomats, is expected to play a key role in navigating the AU’s complex political landscape.
Odinga’s selection of his campaign team reflects his goal of presenting a comprehensive pan-African vision.
The team includes prominent figures such as former IGAD Executive Secretary Mahboub Maalim, Ambassador Anthony Okara, Professor Makau Mutua, and former Nyeri Deputy Governor Dr. Caroline Karugu.
President Ruto underscored the importance of the campaign, stressing that Odinga’s candidacy represents more than personal ambition. “Kenya fully supports his candidacy, and we are committed to backing his vision and leadership. He possesses the extensive experience and deep understanding needed to advance the African Union’s global standing and connect with our people,” Ruto stated.
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The President’s endorsement highlights a unified Kenyan stance, crucial for boosting the country’s influence within the African Union.
The election process for AUC senior positions is underway, with candidates submitting their credentials and vision statements to member states this month.
These submissions detail each candidate’s plan for advancing the AU’s agenda and addressing the continent’s challenges.
The election for the AUC Chairperson and other key positions will occur during the African Union Summit in February 2025.
The available positions include Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, and six Commissioner roles, each assigned to ensure regional representation.
The launch of Odinga’s bid was marked by the presence of notable African leaders, underscoring the campaign’s significance.
Attendees included Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, Burundi’s Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca, and Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.
Kenya’s public endorsement of Odinga’s bid signals its intention to play a more influential role on the African stage.
By backing a high-profile figure like Odinga for the AUC leadership, Kenya aims to steer the African Union’s direction and ensure it aligns with the continent’s aspirations.
As the campaign progresses, it will be crucial to observe how Odinga’s team manages the AU’s political dynamics. The upcoming months will be pivotal, with significant lobbying expected throughout Africa.
The success of Odinga’s campaign will hinge on the strength of his team and their ability to forge alliances and gain support from key African nations.
Ruto Taps Sing’Oei to Lead Team of 7 Campaigning for Raila’s AUC Chair Bid(List)
