President William Ruto has expressed his deep gratitude to leaders from the East African Community (EAC) who attended the official launch of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC).
The event took place at State House, Nairobi, and was a significant moment in Kenya’s diplomatic efforts.
President Ruto highlighted the importance of the leaders’ presence, which included President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan.
Also in attendance were Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca of Burundi, Gen. (Rtd.) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Rwanda, and other key heads of delegations.
In his address, President Ruto emphasized that the attendance of these leaders demonstrated their commitment to the unity and growth of the East African region.
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“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my fellow leaders from East Africa for joining us at State House, Nairobi, for the launch of Kenya’s candidate, Hon. Raila Odinga, for Chair of the African Union Commission. Your presence reflects our shared commitment to unity and progress in our region,” Ruto said.
The President underscored the importance of collaboration and a united voice within the EAC, noting that East Africa has long been a beacon of resilience and innovation on the continent.
He expressed confidence that Raila Odinga’s leadership at the AUC would enable the region to expand its collective vision for a more integrated and prosperous Africa.
“As East Africans, we understand the power of collaboration and the importance of a strong, united voice. Our region has long been a beacon of resilience and innovation. With an East African leader at the helm of the AU Commission, we can further amplify our collective vision for a more prosperous and integrated continent,” Ruto added. “Together, we will continue to strengthen the bonds that unite us and contribute to the broader Pan-African agenda. Asanteni sana!”
During the launch, Raila Odinga pledged to work towards uniting Africa and ensuring that the African Union’s impact is felt across the continent if he is elected as the AUC Chair.
The leaders present at the event endorsed Odinga’s candidacy, expressing their support for his bid.
Raila Odinga is expected to face competition from other candidates, including Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mahmoud Youssouf, Anil Gayan from Mauritius, and Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar.
The race for the AUC Chairmanship is anticipated to be closely watched as African nations rally behind their preferred candidates.
