Hours after Azimio leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga announced his interest to take up the mantle at the helm of the African Union Commission the government of Kenya has issued is stance on the matter.

Foreign Affairs Ministry Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has assured of the Kenyan Government led by President William Ruto’s keenness to Endorse and facilitate the former premier’s Candidature for the role of Chairperson of the AU commission.

PS Korir highlighted that it is the mandate of the Foreign Affairs Ministry to back any qualified Kenyan for that and any other position.

“Facilitating the candidature of qualified Kenyans to regional and international organizations is one of the mandates of @ForeignOfficeKE. We are on standby to support this quest of a well deserving national.” Stated Ministry of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei.

Raila is aiming to take over from Moussa Faki, whose term is coming to an end in March 2024. 

“I have been consulting widely. I think I am ready to serve the continent of Africa. Africa deserves better,” said Raila during a press briefing  at his Karen home in Nairobi on February 15, 2024.

At the same time, Raila promised to enhance social economic change in the region if elected as AU chairperson.

His sentiments were echoed by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo who was present during Raila’s press briefing in Nairobi.

“I have no doubt that my friend who is standing next to me (Hon. Odinga) is the right person to take over the mantle. If the EAC region backs him, I believe the rest of the continent will support him,” said Obasanjo. 

“People who have held position of head of government either as President or PM are most suitable for this job. Looking at it critically, it is the turn of East Africa,” he added.  

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