William Ruto Promises to campaign for Raila Odinga at AU Commission
Kenya’s government is pushing for the veteran opposition figure Raila Odinga to take over from Moussa Faki Mahamat as the head of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Faki’s term as the AU Commission chairperson is set to conclude in 2025, marking four years into his re-election.
Reports suggest that President William Ruto is determined to advocate for Raila’s candidacy within the AU secretariat.
Sources close to the president revealed to People Daily that the head of state has been making efforts to persuade Raila to contemplate running for the position.
Upon ODM boss’s confirmation, Ruto would proceed to advocate for his candidacy in Addis Ababa, as disclosed by insiders.
Insiders within Raila’s camp also confirm the approaches made to him.
The AUC Commission comprises the chairperson, deputy chairperson, commissioners, and staff.
The Assembly, consisting of heads of state and government, elects the chairperson and deputy chairperson.
The Executive Council selects the commissioners, who are then appointed by the Assembly.
Commission members serve four-year terms, renewable once.
Raila will require support either through consensus or by at least a two-thirds majority vote from member states represented by their heads.
The former prime minister previously served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development for five years from 2018 to 2023.
In Other News: Raila Odinga Declares His Candidacy For Top AU Seat
William Ruto Promises to campaign for Raila Odinga at AU Commission
