In a significant development for African diplomacy, H.E. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, alongside former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, addressed the media regarding Kenya's candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.

This joint press briefing highlighted Kenya’s strategic approach and strong commitment to advancing African unity and progress on the continental stage.

Dr. Mudavadi commenced the briefing with expressions of gratitude for the productive discussions with Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, underlining the paramount importance of Kenya's bid for the AUC chairmanship.

He reiterated that Rt. Hon. Odinga, Kenya’s candidate for the position in the forthcoming February 2025 elections, epitomizes the visionary leadership required to uplift the African Union to new heights.

"Rt. Hon. Raila is a staunch Pan-Africanist who inherently upholds the 'Think Africa above all' principle, central to the AU Commission's mandate," Dr. Mudavadi stated. "His extensive experience and leadership ethos are in perfect alignment with the AU Commission’s values of efficiency, professionalism, and respect for diversity."

Dr. Mudavadi went on to commend President H.E. Dr. William Ruto for his full endorsement of Rt. Hon. Odinga’s candidacy and his proactive engagement with leaders across the continent.

"Under the President’s leadership, Kenya has emerged as a leading advocate for African affairs on the international stage," he noted, highlighting the country’s active role in shaping regional and global discourse.

Highlighting the significance of Eastern Africa nominating a candidate for the AUC chairmanship, Dr. Mudavadi emphasized the need for strategic planning and effective coordination in Kenya’s campaign efforts.

He outlined the comprehensive campaign strategy, including the establishment of a campaign secretariat by the State Department for Foreign Affairs, outreach programs to AU member states, and preparations for a public debate to be broadcast live to African citizens six months before the election date.

"Kenya is firmly convinced that our candidate, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, possesses the credentials and the fervor to champion Africa’s interests on the global stage," Dr. Mudavadi asserted.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Mudavadi stressed the importance of fostering a united African voice in addressing the continent's myriad challenges. "To truly realize Africa's potential, the AU must adopt a proactive and strategic approach in overcoming the persistent obstacles that hinder our collective progress," PCS remarked.

Dr. Mudavadi also underscored the imperative for the AU to spearhead reforms of international organizations and global financial institutions, advocating for Africa's enhanced representation in core decision-making bodies.

Wishing Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga success in his candidacy, Dr. Mudavadi concluded, "As a government and a nation, we extend our full support to Rt. Hon. Odinga in this noble endeavour for the betterment of our continent. Africa needs leaders of his caliber to propel us towards a brighter future."

The press briefing concluded with an air of optimism and unity as PCS Dr. Mudavadi and Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga reiterated their commitment to Kenya’s candidacy for the AU Commission chairmanship.

Their unified message echoed a resounding call for African solidarity and progress, emphasizing the importance of a proactive and strategic AU leadership in addressing the continent's challenges and advancing its collective aspirations.

With the full backing of the Kenyan government and the unwavering support of its people, Rt. Hon. Odinga's candidacy represents not only a testament to his leadership qualities but also to Kenya's commitment to playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the continent.

As Kenya forges ahead with its campaign, the nation stands poised to make history, driven by a shared vision of a prosperous, peaceful, and united Africa under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. As the countdown to the AU Commission chairmanship elections begins, all eyes are on Kenya as it embarks on this momentous journey towards a brighter, more prosperous future for Africa and its people.