Mudavadi rallies African Nations to back Raila for AU Commission Chair in Addis Ababa
Prime Cabinet Secretary (PCS) Musalia Mudavadi has intensified Kenya’s diplomatic charm offensive, urging African nations to support Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairpersonship. Speaking on the sidelines of the AU’s 46th Executive Council of Foreign Ministers session in Addis Ababa, Mudavadi emphasized Raila’s pan-African credentials, leadership experience, and readiness to address the continent’s pressing challenges.
Mudavadi described Raila as a “resolute, strong-willed leader with vast knowledge of Africa’s political dynamics” who is well-positioned to spearhead peace, stability, and development across the continent.
“There are conflicts in parts of Africa—in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, Sudan, and other regions. What we need is a leader who is ready to confront these issues head-on. Raila stands out and is ready for the task,” said Mudavadi.
The PCS warned against delays in electing the next AUC chair, stressing that Africa needs decisive leadership amid rising conflicts.
“If we do not elect the chairperson of the AUC on Saturday, at a time when some African countries are in turmoil, we risk projecting an image of weakness, confusion, and indecisiveness. Africa needs a decisive voice,” he added.
The election, scheduled for Saturday, requires a candidate to secure a two-thirds majority. Failure to do so could postpone the vote to July. Raila faces stiff competition from Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato.
Mudavadi expressed confidence in Raila’s victory, noting that President William Ruto, himself, and Raila had put in maximum effort to secure the seat for Kenya.
“In the remaining days, we will continue seeking support. We’re not taking any chances until the last vote is counted and victory declared,” he affirmed.
Addressing claims of the Kenyan government ferrying supporters to Addis Ababa, Mudavadi clarified that patriotic Kenyans were traveling privately to support Raila.
“We’ve been informed that tens, possibly hundreds, of Kenyans are traveling privately, even by bus, to Addis Ababa. This reflects patriotism. Raila’s victory will not just be personal; it will be a victory for Kenya,” he said.
Mudavadi dismissed critics rooting against Raila’s candidacy, stating, “There are a few Kenyans with negative energy hoping for failure, but they will be disappointed.”
If elected, Raila plans to focus on bridging infrastructural gaps, economic transformation, enhancing intra-African trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), financial independence, agricultural transformation, climate action, peace and security, youth empowerment, and gender equity across the continent.
