Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship has received a significant boost following the launch of a book championing his bid.
On Monday, January 20, 2025, former Nyamira Senator Kennedy Mongare presented Raila with copies of his book, The Last Great Battle? Raila Odinga and AUC Chairmanship. The book underscores Raila’s vision for Africa and supports his candidacy for the prestigious position.
As part of his campaign, Raila recently toured Southern Africa, meeting with key leaders to lobby for support. Namibia’s President Nangolo Mbumba hosted him during his campaign, and he also met with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“H.E. President Emmerson Mnangagwa welcomed us with open arms when we arrived in Harare, Zimbabwe today. It’s been a pleasure to discuss my candidature for the AUC Chairmanship and share my vision for Africa with the president,” Raila posted on his official X account.
Raila’s campaign trail has also taken him to Angola, South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho, as he seeks support from Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. His next focus is on North Africa, where he aims to win the backing of Arab nations as the election nears.
“The candidate will be in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho this week, and then North Africa will follow,” said Dr. Sing’oei, a close ally of Raila, in a media interview.
Raila is competing against Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar and Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti in the February 2025 elections. The winner will succeed outgoing AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, who has served two terms.
Raila expressed gratitude for the support he has received, particularly from Mongare and other leaders backing his vision for Africa. “I thank Hon. Mongare for taking the time to put pen to paper and author this book in support of my bid to be the AUC Chairperson,” Raila wrote on his X account.
The elections for the AUC chairperson will take place during the upcoming African Union annual summit, which will bring together heads of state and government from the 55-member bloc.