SIAYA COUNTY, Kenya – President William Ruto has reaffirmed his confidence in former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position, describing him as a leader with the vision and credentials to unite Africa and drive its progress.
Speaking during the Piny Luo Cultural Festival in Siaya County, Ruto highlighted Raila’s track record as a pan-Africanist and his ability to foster peace, manage conflicts, and unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.
“Before we rolled out his candidature, we went to Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni as an elder and spoke with all EAC heads of state to confirm that we had the right candidate,” Ruto said. “The celebrations here confirm to us that our quest to put forward Raila’s candidature is the right thing to do.”
Raila, who aims to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat as AUC chairperson, is seen as a unifying figure not just for Kenya but for the East African Community (EAC) and the continent.
His campaign has garnered “tremendous progress” and “enormous support,” according to the president.
Raila faces stiff competition in the February 2025 elections, scheduled to take place during the African Union Summit.
His rivals include Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Mauritius’ Anil Kumarsingh Gayan, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato.
Despite the competitive field, Ruto expressed optimism about Raila’s prospects, citing his interactions with global delegations and visiting heads of state as evidence of his growing support.
The president also took the opportunity to underscore the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
At the festival, he announced the gazettement of two cultural heritage sites in Siaya County: the Ramogi Hill Forest Reserve and the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum.
He revealed that seven additional sites in the region are under assessment for similar recognition due to their historical, cultural, and traditional significance.
“As we build on our roots, we must ensure we have a successful family, a successful community, a successful nation, and ultimately, a progressive region,” Ruto said.
Ruto emphasized that Raila’s campaign is not just a Kenyan initiative but a collective effort by the EAC to secure strong leadership for the African Union.
He urged member states to rally behind Raila, whose leadership he believes will “turn around the fortunes of Africa.”
“Raila is not a candidate for Kenya; he is a candidate for the EAC and the continent. His proven credentials as a pan-Africanist will be of immense value,” Ruto said.
