On Friday, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga engaged in the Mjadala Afrika debate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Following the debate, Kenyans have expressed mixed reactions, with some praising his performance, asserting that he did well, while others expressed scepticism about his chances of winning the AUC race.
The debate was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, featuring candidates vying for the AUC chairmanship and was broadcast across the continent in six languages.
During the debate, Raila said there would be a fair representation of the continent to the security council.
Under his leadership, he said, permanent representation for Africa, complete with veto powers, is a must.
He lamented that Africa, with 55 sovereign nations, does not have any seats yet Europe has three.
“I'm not going to talk about permanent representation. If the heads of state see it fit that I should head this, I will work with all the leadership of the continent to ensure that we get a fair treatment of the international scene,” he said.
At the end of the debate, Kenyans took to social media to express their views.
One Eric Manyikah said, “Raila is either too smart or did his research well. His answers were full of well-thought statements, with practical and logical examples”.
Mr Right tweeted, Yesterday Raila Odinga dismantled Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar combined!!”
“I never imagined Baba Raila Odinga could command such eloquence and sharpness! He has effortlessly outshined every candidate in that debate,” Kenya Daima said.
“Raila did it very well,” Frank Nyabuga said.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja also reacted to the debate stating; "Hongera Baba. Your immense knowledge of the continent, its history, and potential, delivered like a true African Statesman."
Others felt that Raila’s remarks were short of that of Youssouf.
"He tried, but the Djibouti guy,” Moses Kyallo said.
"As Kenyans, we wish the Djibouti guys all the best,” Mr Njurus said.
