Raila Odinga has shifted his campaigns for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson seat in northern Africa.
On Thursday, January 23, 2024, Raila met Tunisia’s Secretary of State Mohamed Ben Ayed to discuss his AUC bid.
In a statement, Raila said he discussed his vision for Africa with the Tunisian minister as sought the backing of the north African nation for his AUC bid.
“H.E Mr. Mohamed Ben Ayed, Secretary of State to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad of the Republic of Tunisia, has today graciously hosted me in Tunis.
“During our meeting, I shared my vision for Africa and outlined my plans to strengthen and enhance the effectiveness of the African Union Commission if elected as Chairperson,” Raila said.
Earlier on Wednesday, January 22, Raila was hosted by Algerian Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui in Algiers as he began his AUC campaign in north Africa.
“I have been warmly received in Algiers, by the Rt Hon Nadir Larbaoui, the Prime Minister of Algeria.
“We’ve had an opportunity to discuss and renew our mutual relations as brotherly countries. I shared my vision for the African Union and the need to further strengthen Pan Africanism for continental prosperity. Thank you Prime Minister,” Raila said.
The former Prime Minister embarked on a north Africa campaign trail after a whirlwind diplomatic blitz across Southern Africa a week earlier.
In southern Africa, Raila campaigned in Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho and Mozambique.
In support of Raila’s candidature, Kenya will host a special retreat for African heads of state and government in Nairobi on January 27, 2025.
The meeting, organized by President William Ruto, aims to solidify continental backing for Raila.
While Ruto will officially host the retreat as the champion of AU reforms, the event is strategically positioned to serve as a platform for advancing Raila’s candidacy for the top continental role.
According to State House Nairobi, Angolan President João Lourenço is among the leaders confirmed to attend the retreat, which underscores Kenya’s commitment to securing Raila’s election.
“President Ruto, who was given the mandate by fellow African heads of State to champion AU reforms, invited President Lourenço for a retreat in Kenya later this month ahead of the AU Heads of State Summit in February,” the statement read.
As of December 2024, Raila had secured the support of at least 25 African leaders for his AUC bid.
To be elected AUC Chairperson, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority during voting by the 55 member states.
Raila will need at least 36 votes out of the total 55, with each AU member state casting only one vote.
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