The government has explained why Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga is the best candidate to occupy the post of the African Union Commission (AUC) post.
Through the State Department of Foreign Affairs, William Ruto‘s administration has officially submitted the documentation of Raila’s bid and, in doing so, has pointed out the reasons why he is the best-qualified candidate for the job.
“Kenya’s candidature comes at a critical moment in history. Despite the milestones achieved so far in the continent, Africa continues to experience economic distress, environmental challenges, conflicts, terrorism, and general social discord, exacerbated by geopolitical competition. Perhaps at no time in the history of the African Union has the continent needed a more visionary leader, an accomplished statesman, and a quintessential Pan-Africanist.
“In this regard, Kenya has offered the Raila Odinga the position of AUC Chairperson. This decision is informed by Odinga’s Pan-Africanist credentials, his suitability, his vast networks across Africa and his proven competence to lead AUC – Africa’s premier continental organization. He has served as Prime Minister and in various ministerial portfolios, and importantly, as the High Representative of the AUC Chairperson on Infrastructure. He has observed several elections in Africa and has served as a peace mediator in several countries,” the government statement read in part.
Transformation agenda
At the national level, Kenya Kwanza has been vouching for what they have called national transformation, and in Africa, the government believes that the former Lang’ata Member of Parliament is the best bet.
“It is a fact that Africa is endowed with vast human and natural resources that have yet to be fully harnessed for the benefit of its people. That is why the AU needs a catalytic and visionary leader to unlock this potential. The remarkable life and exemplary career experiences of Raila Odinga make him a perfect fit to sit at the helm of the AUC to drive Africa’s transformation and Agenda 2063.
“Odinga is an exceptional African. He embodies high ethical standards, unparalleled integrity, and well-honed diplomatic skills. He is an ardent champion of African unity, intra-African trade and integration, and infrastructural connectivity. These qualities were on full display when he served as High Representative of the AUC Chairperson on Infrastructure,” it added.
Raila’s leadership and political philosophy have also been pointed out as key qualification points that make him the best choice over his rivals.
“His leadership is visionary, transformational, action-oriented, and shall accelerate the implementation of the aspirations, goals, and flagship programs of Agenda 2063. Odinga’s key focus and commitment is to harness Africa’s rich and vast human and natural resources to propel Africa towards a new era of shared prosperity.
“He envisions an African Union Commission that can deliver on the priorities of the African peoples – both by catalyzing delivery on our continent and by commanding the global influence it rightfully warrants,” the document continued to read.
Strategies, goals
The government also revealed that the former Premier has formulated strategies that will help him achieve his goals as AUC chief, should he clinch the post.
Among those strategies are African integration and infrastructure development, economic transformation, enhancing intra-African trade, financial independence, gender equity and equality, agricultural transformation, climate action, peace and security, and the youth empowerment agenda for Africa.
“Kenya is a member in good standing within the AU and consistently meets its obligations to the Union. In addition, Kenya is an exemplar of African solutions to African problems through its financial support for the AU’s initiatives and leading role in peace, security, and conflict management on the continent, including in mediation efforts.
“Kenya seeks the support of all AU Member States and remains committed to continue playing its role at the regional, continental, and multilateral levels in the pursuit of Africa’s priorities and aspirations,” the statement further said.
Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Somalia’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Fawzia Yusuf Adam, and the Seychelles’ former Vice President Vincent Meriton are expected to challenge Raila for the seat.