Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has praised Raila Odinga as a man who can steer Africa to greater integration and development.
Raila has been fronted by Kenya for the position of the African Union Commission (AUC) chairman, and his bid was officially launched on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, by President William Ruto.
The former Defence CS praised both Ruto and Raila and said the former stands a better chance of reforming the continent.
“Today marks a significant moment for Kenya as Rt. Hon. @RailaOdinga officially launched his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship at State House, Nairobi.
“Hosted by President @WilliamsRuto, the event brought together leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and across the continent, expressing unity and support for Baba’s vision of a stronger, more prosperous Africa.
“With his unmatched experience and dedication to Pan-Africanism, Hon. Raila stands as the leader who can steer the African Union towards greater integration and development. Let us rally behind him as he champions a future of unity, progress, and prosperity for Africa,” Duale posted on X on Tuesday, August 27, 2024.
Raila and Ruto were fierce competitors in the 2022 presidential elections, and by supporting his opponent, Duale says Ruto has shown statesmanship.
“The president’s statesmanship shone through as he extended his unwavering support to his greatest competitor in the last election, emphasizing his commitment and dedication to forging a unified Kenya that prioritizes the greater good for all of us,” the CS concluded.
Ruto’s gratitude
On his part, Ruto extended his thanks to the Heads of States and representatives who attended the launch in Nairobi.
“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. @RailaOdinga, for Chair of the African Union Commission.
“President @KagutaMuseveni of Uganda, President @SuluhuSamia of the United Republic of Tanzania, President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan, Prime Minster Gervais Ndirakobuca of Burundi, Gen. (Rtd.) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Rwanda, and other heads of delegations; your presence reflects our shared commitment to unity and progress in our region,” Ruto said in a post on X.
With Raila leading AUC, Ruto is confident that much can be achieved.
“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.
“Together, we will continue to strengthen the bonds that unite us and contribute to the broader Pan-African agenda,” he said.
The AUC elections will be held on February 25, 2025.
