Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga now says that he intends to make the African Union a people-centered organisation, should he become its chairman.
Speaking on Tuesday during the official launch of his bid, Raila said that he will work with all heads of state to achieve this.
He said that he wants the people in the African continent to feel the AU's impact on their lives.
"I plan to work with you Excellencies and make African Union people-centred. African people should feel the African Union in their lives," Raila said.
"Excellencies, if elected chairman, I propose to utilize the transition period to critically analyse the existing proposals for reforms and building capacity of the AU Commission. The ultimate aim is to follow up on the implementation of the reports so far formulated."
He said that what he also wants to have is a united Africa and not one divided by regions.
Raila was the first to make his speech at the launch in the event attended by at least four sitting heads of state and two former Presidents from the East African Community.
Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo was also present.
Kenya formally submitted Raila Odinga's bid for African Union Chairmanship seat in July.
Raila is seeking to replace Moussa Faki of Chad, whose term comes to an end early next year.
Raila is facing competition from Djibouti's Minister of Foreign Affairs Mahmoud Youssouf, Anil Gayan (Mauritius) and Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar).
