South Sudan President Salva Kiir Backs Raila Odinga for African Union Commission Chair

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has pledged to mobilize the entire East African Community (EAC) to endorse Raila Odinga’s bid for the Chairperson role of the African Union Commission (AUC).

The commitment came during a meeting between Salva Kiir and Raila Odinga at State House in Juba on July 3, 2024.

Raila Odinga expressed gratitude following the meeting, stating, “Had a very productive meeting in Juba with the President of South Sudan. Thank you, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, for hosting me.Your support and commitment to rallying the entire EAC block behind my AUC Chair candidacy are greatly appreciated,” Raila stated.

Kenya Launches Campaign to Support Raila Odinga for AUC Chair

The Government of Kenya has established a campaign secretariat to bolster Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the chairperson position of the African Union Commission (AUC).

This initiative was announced by Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi during a meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Nairobi on June 5, 2024.

Mudavadi highlighted that the secretariat, comprising Raila’s strategy team, was set up following a consultative session with Raila and his associates to prepare for the AUC leadership role.

Mudavadi commended President Ruto for endorsing Raila Odinga’s candidacy and actively engaging with leaders across the continent, noting the positive reception received thus far.

“I want to laud President Ruto for fully endorsing the candidacy of Raila Odinga and continuing to extensively engage with his counterparts in diverse regions of the continent. So far, our candidature has been positively received,” said Mudavadi.

Emphasizing Raila’s suitability for the role, Mudavadi described him as a visionary leader capable of elevating the African Union to new heights.

He underscored Raila’s commitment to pan-Africanism, citing his alignment with the AU’s principle of prioritizing African interests and fostering a people-centric organization.

Raila Odinga aims to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat as the AUC chairperson, with Mahamat’s term concluding in February 2025.