Ruto intensifies campaigns for Raila's AUC bid in Addis Ababa

President William Ruto on Thursday November 7, 2024 intensified campaigns for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission chairperson candidacy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The President arrived in Addis Ababa on Wednesday November 6, 2024 in the evening en route from Juba, South Sudan.

President Ruto was received at the Bole International Airport by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

During his visit to Addis Ababa, President Ruto had engagements and a series of meetings with diplomats across the African Continent based in Ethiopia.

“As the Champion of the African Union Institutional Reforms, addressed the Permanent Representatives Committee comprising African ambassadors to the AU, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,” Ruto noted in a statement on his X account.

Raila Odinga attending the meeting of Permanent Representatives Committee comprising African ambassadors to the AU in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on November 7, 2024. Photo/PCS.

“It is imperative that Africa becomes organised and builds the necessary synergy to tackle the challenges that face the continent. To achieve this crucial objective, the reform agenda of the African Union institutions must be thorough and consultative,” he added.

According to Ruto, the reforms are aimed at making the institutions of the African Union more accountable, efficient and effective in serving Member States and the people of the continent.

Meanwhile, Raila, who also attended high level meetings with President Ruto and other African leaders in Addis Ababa, is preparing for a series of activities including unveiling his AUC continental campaigns on Friday.

Previously on Wednesday, Raila’s secretariat had indicated in a statement that the event is meant to provide a platform for Raila to engage with key players and partners of the AU.

“The Addis event is a follow-up to the 27th August 2024 official reception of the candidature of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga in Nairobi, and is meant to provide a platform for the candidate to engage with core players, formations, and partners of the AU.

“The candidate will use the forum to outline his pan-African vision and priorities in line with AU Agenda 2063,” read part of a statement from Raila’s secretariat.

Raila is also expected to issue a keynote address at the Grand Campaign Reception which will be held at AU Multipurpose Hall on Friday evening.