I'll abolish visa requirements within Africa if elected, Raila says on AUC bid

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during the launch of his bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship at State House, Nairobi. [PCS]

At least four sitting Heads of State and two former presidents from the East African Community have fully endorsed Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.

President William Ruto announced support for Raila's candidacy while unveiling the secretariat that will lead Odinga's campaign for the AUC role.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi on Tuesday, August 27, Ruto stated that the secretariat will be headed by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Singoei and former Kenyan Ambassador to the United States, Elkanah Odembo.

"The secretariat will include members from all five regions of Africa. This will greatly assist in making the case for Raila Odinga," said Ruto.

The president urged Raila to unite Africans and serve all Africans equally if elected. "The task before us at the African Union is a mission for all Africans. It is a noble cause to connect our people and nations with the promising future we all deserve," he added.

Odinga on the other hand pledged to make the African Union a people-centered organisation by collaborating with all leaders to achieve his vision.

"I plan to work with Your Excellencies to make the African Union people-centered. If elected chair, I will use the transition period to critically analyse existing proposals for reforms and to build the capacity of the AU Commission,"he said.

The former premier also promised that, if elected AUC chairperson, he would eliminate visa requirements within African countries, combat trade barriers, and ensure the continent benefits from its mineral resources.

At the same event, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua endorsed Odinga, emphasising that Africa deserves the best leadership, which Kenya offers in Odinga.

"Raila's passion for Pan-Africanism is unmatched. We are here to present Kenya's finest to lead the continent. I want to tell leaders and representatives from across Africa that we present Raila because our motherland deserves the best," Gachagua said.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi noted Odinga as the ideal candidate for the AUC chairmanship, describing him as a true statesman and a visionary leader focused on the people.

"Raila has tirelessly championed the cause of African unity and progress, always putting Africa first. Odinga embodies the ideals of people-centered, visionary leadership that the AUC needs," said Mudavadi.

If elected next year, Odinga will replace Chad's Moussa Faki.