Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga /HANDOUT
Kanu chairperson Gideon Moi has wished the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga well ahead of the African Union Commission elections.
Gideon described the former Prime Minister as a visionary, bold and progressive leader who will transform the continent as the AU chair.
The African Union is set to conduct elections from February 15 and 16, 2025.
In a statement on Friday, Gideon added that the continent and country will benefit from his visionary leadership.
"We extend our best wishes to Raila Odinga in his bid to become the Chairperson of the AUC. Across the political spectrum, everybody is in concurrence that Raila is a visionary, bold and progressive leader," he said.
"Today, Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its history as a continent, ready to be steered to greater heights by a great statesman and Pan-African. Indeed, Africa's collective prosperity, encapsulated in the 'The Africa We Want' mantra, is at hand with Hon. Raila Odinga's expected ascension to the position of the AUC Chairperson."
Raila is set to face two main opponents in Saturday’s AUC election, where at least 49 heads of state and government have gathered for the 38th Ordinary Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Several Kenyan leaders, including MPs, governors, and senators, have traveled to Addis Ababa to offer Raila moral support as heads of state prepare to elect the next AUC chair.
Speaking on Friday, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura said the government is committed to helping the former Prime Minister win the African Union Commission chairmanship seat.
Mwaura said Raila has led a spirited, intensive, and strategic campaign to bag the AUC chair bid and has received full support from leaders across the continent.
“As the African Union Commission (AUC) elections draw closer. Kenya reaffirms its unwavering support and optimism in the candidature of Raila Odinga for the chairmanship. Over the past few months. Raila has led an intensive and strategic campaign, directly engaging over 40 African Heads of State and securing broad-based backing across the continent,” Mwaura added.
“His candidacy has received full endorsement from the East African Community (EAC), friends of Kenya, and pan-African allies, demonstrating confidence in his ability to steer the African Union towards greater unity, economic transformation, and institutional efficiency.”
The government spokesman said that Kenya's delegation remains fully engaged and committed to ensuring Raila’s victory.
