The East Africa Students Union (EASU) has welcomed the candidature of former prime minister Raila Odinga to contest for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson.
In a statement on Tuesday, EASU expressed confidence in Odinga’s vast experience in global leadership, adding that he is the befitting candidate for the critical position.
“In Raila Odinga, EASU sees a selfless statesman of high standing, an experienced leader of global repute, and a Pan-African true to the continent’s agenda,” said EASU president Antony Manyara.
EASU further urged all student bodes, youth organisations, and lobby groups across the continent to show support for Odinga’s candidature ahead of the elections in 2025.
The elections to find the next occupant at the AU top job will seek to replace Chad’s Moussa Faki, the current chairperson, who will be making his exit after a two-term tenure.
President William Ruto officially endorsed his long-time political rival Raila Odinga to the AUC chairperson position at State House, Nairobi on Tuesday.
President Ruto said Odinga is the appropriate candidate for the job owing to his illustrious leadership career.
“I present to you a visionary Pan-African, a bold and wise leader, a professional and technocrat, as well as a towering statesman and veteran mobiliser for positive change. I am confident that he will give his utmost and do all it takes to make Africa proud and powerful,” said Ruto.
On his part, Odinga asserted that he is willing to take the bull by its horns and significantly transform the continent if he clinches the position.
A myriad of leaders from the Eastern Africa region have assured Odinga of their support.
Odinga will also be supported by a secretariat led by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary (PS) Korir Sing’oei and former Kenyan Ambassador to the United States (US) Elkana Odembo.
