President William Ruto has issued a statement after Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship race, Raila Odinga, lost.
In the elections held on Saturday, February 15, Raila lost to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf after seven rounds of secret balloting by African heads of state at Nelson Mandela Hall in Ethiopia.
Taking to X, President Ruto regretted the outcome but thanked all the African heads of state who supported Raila’s candidacy.
"While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering Raila Odinga's vision and priorities for the African Union and for according him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation," said Ruto.The president further congratulated Mahmoud and pledged Kenya’s support as he steers the Africa Union Commission to the next level.
"This election was not about individuals or nations, it was about Africa’s future. That future remains bright and, together, we will continue working for a united, prosperous, and influential Africa on the global stage," Ruto added.
