Migori Senator Eddie Oketch has claimed that Azimio leader Raila Odinga can become chairperson of the African Union (AU) without government support.
Oketch made the remarks on Thursday February 15 during an interview with Citizen TV.
His remarks emerged at a time when the term for the current AU chairperson Moussa Faki is coming to end in 2024.
Eddie Oketch stated that Raila has more exposure when it comes to politics and has gained political respect across the continent.
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“Raila has massive connections and respect across the globe. I can argue that today if you were to compare Raila Odinga and President Ruto in terms of respect Raila goes way above Ruto.”
“If you look at the way AU selects their chairperson, there is no structure whatsoever that needs endorsement or mercy by a president,” Senator Oketch said.
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He added that Raila has served over 40 years in politics and has fought for democracy in Kenya and mentored many leaders.
On the other hand, Kilifi North MP Owen Baya argued that even though Raila has a high profile and political respect he still requires support from the government .
Baya said that one of the requirements to get a prominent job such as AU chairperson is getting government support.
“Raila needs to talk to the government because our foreign missions and secretariat at AU will play a key role in determining who becomes the AU chairperson,” said Baya.
AU chairperson is the topmost official of the continental bloc as he/she acts as the Chief Executive Officer, legal representative of the AU and the Commission’s Chief Accounting Officer.
The Chairperson of the Commission is elected by the Assembly for a four-year term, renewable once.
AU chairperson is responsible for promoting and popularizing the AU’s objectives and enhancing its performance .
Additionally, he is responsible for consulting and coordinating with key stakeholders and appointing and managing Commission staff.
