NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has expressed his willingness to accept the results of the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson elections, set to take place on Saturday, February 15, in Addis Ababa.
Speaking at Bomas of Kenya on Monday, where he addressed Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders and women supporters, Raila emphasized his commitment to the democratic process, stating that he would return home graciously if he does not secure the position.
“In God’s grace, I know I shall win. If we go through, we shall be winners; if we lose, we shall still be winners,” he told his supporters.
The gathering at Bomas, which brought together clergy, top ODM officials, and other dignitaries, was a special prayer session seeking divine intervention for Raila’s bid.
Raila is considered a leading contender for the role but faces stiff competition from Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato.
The election will determine the successor to outgoing AUC Chair Moussa Faki.
On Monday, Raila disclosed that several African leaders had encouraged him to vie, believing he could help tackle the continent’s pressing challenges.
“They told me that the problems facing Kenya are similar to those in many African countries,” he said, underscoring his vision for a stronger, more united Africa.
His candidacy has received significant backing from the Kenyan government. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recently affirmed that President William Ruto is among Raila’s biggest campaigners for the position.
“After the elections, Ruto and Raila agreed that Kenya should field a candidate for the AUC elections. And because they have been friends for a long time, dating back to Ruto’s days in ODM, they decided that Raila should be Kenya’s candidate,” Kindiki said last week.
