NAIROBI, Kenya – The East Africa Students Union (EASU) has thrown its weight behind former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position, heralding him as the ideal leader to guide the continent into a new era of unity and development.
In a statement released on Tuesday, EASU lauded Odinga’s extensive experience in global leadership, expressing confidence that his vision aligns with the continent’s aspirations.
“Raila Odinga represents the epitome of selfless leadership, a statesman of high standing, and a dedicated Pan-Africanist committed to advancing Africa’s agenda,” said EASU President Antony Manyara. “His vast experience and deep-rooted passion for the continent make him the most suitable candidate for this critical role.”
EASU further called on student bodies, youth organizations, and lobbying groups across Africa to rally behind Odinga’s candidacy, emphasizing the need for unified support to secure a leader who prioritizes the continent’s collective progress.
The endorsement from EASU signals growing momentum for Odinga’s bid, which has already garnered backing from key political figures in the region.
The upcoming AUC elections, slated for 2025, will determine the successor to Chad’s Moussa Faki, who will conclude his second term.
The position of AUC chairperson is pivotal, overseeing the implementation of the African Union’s policies and fostering political and economic integration among member states.
President William Ruto, Odinga’s long-time political rival, publicly endorsed his bid at a high-profile event held at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday.
Ruto praised Odinga as a visionary leader with a proven track record of championing Pan-Africanism and driving transformative change.
“Raila Odinga is not just a leader; he is a beacon of hope for the African continent,” President Ruto declared. “With his experience, wisdom, and unyielding commitment to Africa’s progress, I am confident he will elevate the African Union to new heights, making Africa proud and powerful.”
In response, Odinga expressed his readiness to take on the challenge, vowing to dedicate himself to the cause of continental transformation.
His campaign will be bolstered by a secretariat led by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei and former Kenyan Ambassador to the United States, Elkana Odembo.
In a statement released on Tuesday, EASU lauded Odinga’s extensive experience in global leadership, expressing confidence that his vision aligns with the continent’s aspirations.
“Raila Odinga represents the epitome of selfless leadership, a statesman of high standing, and a dedicated Pan-Africanist committed to advancing Africa’s agenda,” said EASU President Antony Manyara. “His vast experience and deep-rooted passion for the continent make him the most suitable candidate for this critical role.”
EASU further called on student bodies, youth organizations, and lobbying groups across Africa to rally behind Odinga’s candidacy, emphasizing the need for unified support to secure a leader who prioritizes the continent’s collective progress.
The endorsement from EASU signals growing momentum for Odinga’s bid, which has already garnered backing from key political figures in the region.
The upcoming AUC elections, slated for 2025, will determine the successor to Chad’s Moussa Faki, who will conclude his second term.
The position of AUC chairperson is pivotal, overseeing the implementation of the African Union’s policies and fostering political and economic integration among member states.
President William Ruto, Odinga’s long-time political rival, publicly endorsed his bid at a high-profile event held at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday.
Ruto praised Odinga as a visionary leader with a proven track record of championing Pan-Africanism and driving transformative change.
“Raila Odinga is not just a leader; he is a beacon of hope for the African continent,” President Ruto declared. “With his experience, wisdom, and unyielding commitment to Africa’s progress, I am confident he will elevate the African Union to new heights, making Africa proud and powerful.”
In response, Odinga expressed his readiness to take on the challenge, vowing to dedicate himself to the cause of continental transformation.
His campaign will be bolstered by a secretariat led by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei and former Kenyan Ambassador to the United States, Elkana Odembo.
