Raila Odinga has no academic qualifications for the AU job

Lawyer Miguna Miguna has raised concerns about Raila Odinga’s academic qualifications for the position of chairperson for the African Union.

This was after Raila declared his candidature for the AU job, seeking to take over from the current AU chairperson, Moussa Faki, who is set to retire in early 2025.

Miguna noted in a statement on February 18, 2024 that Raila does not have the academic qualifications for the AU job.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga (left) with former Nigerian President Obasanjo during a press briefing in Nairobi on February 15, 2024. Photo: TV47

He explained that aspirants for the AU chairperson position must possess a master’s degree in law, business administration, political science, social sciences, or economics.

In addition, Miguna insisted that a prospective AU leader should demonstrate a clean record devoid of fraud and corruption while also possessing a high level of intellect.

“To be chairman of the AU Council (the equivalent of the IEBC in Kenya), one must have at least a Master’s Degree in law, political science, business administration, economics, or social sciences.

“Not metal work, panel beating, or ‘engineering’ of makarabati like my friend Sudi. He must also have zero record of fraud and corruption and be an intellectual leader,” said Miguna.

Additionally, a candidate for the position who has a PhD in Law, International Relations, Diplomacy, Management, Business Administration, Political Science, Social Sciences or closely related field from a recognized institution will have an added advantage.

Candidates for the AU chairperson post should have not less than 20 years of relevant professional and international experience with at least 10 years served in progressive senior leadership role(s) preferably in an intergovernmental organisation or national government/public service, international or regional institution.

Aspirants for the post are also expected to demonstrate transformational leadership experience with strategic vision and proven skills in managing complex organizations at the national, regional or international level.

In addition, they should demonstrate a record of setting clear standards for accountability, probity, value for money and risk management.

Miguna’s remarks emerged a few days after Raila officially announced his candidature for the AU top job on February 15, 2024 after a series of consultations.

Azimio La Umoja- One Kenya coalition leader Raila Odinga Photo: Raila Odinga/ Twitter

“I am ready to go for the championship of the African Union. I have been consulting widely. I think I am ready to serve the continent of Africa. Africa deserves better.

“If we marshal our resources as a continent, pull in one direction, then we can be able to make Africa greater,” Raila said.