‘A visionary leader for a unified Africa’ – MP Kaluma hails AUC candidate Raila Odinga

Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has heaped praise on former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as the ideal candidate to steer the African Union Commission (AUC) agenda.

Sharing his sentiments through his X account on Saturday, December 14, 2024, Kaluma highlighted his mission to serve the interests of all Africans. He emphasized Raila’s experience, which positions him as a capable leader, and commended his relentless passion for unity and promoting the collective well-being of Africa.

“His vision for Africa is clear. His mission is right. He aims to serve. His experience is relevant. His passion is unrelenting, unifying, and for the mutual good of all Africans! Baba wa Afrika,” Kaluma stated.

Kaluma’s remarks follow Raila’s performance in the intense Mjadala Afrika debate, which took place at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Mjadala Afrika

During the debate, Raila went head-to-head with other contenders for the position, including Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti, Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar, and Anil Gayan of Mauritius.

In his address, Raila highlighted his commitment to realizing the dreams of Africa’s founding fathers if elected as AU Chairman. He pledged to prioritize key areas such as trade, agriculture, free movement of people, and energy integration across the continent.

“I am going to lead from the front to ensure that we achieve the vision of the founding fathers of our continent,” Raila stated.

Raila noted his extensive experience in leadership and public service as a strong foundation for the position. Over his career, he served as Kenya’s High Representative for Infrastructure at the AU for five years, Prime Minister, and Member of Parliament. Beyond politics, Raila has also worked as an engineer and an educator, further underscoring his multifaceted expertise.

Throughout the debate, Raila positioned himself as the right man to advance the African Union’s mission, combining his experience, passion, and deep understanding of the continent’s challenges and opportunities.

Raila Odinga pledged to advocate for Africa’s representation at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Speaking during a debate, he promised to push for the allocation of two permanent seats for Africa on the UN body if elected as Chairperson of the AUC.

Raila argued that the current structure of the UNSC is outdated and fails to account for the realities of the modern world. He highlighted that the UN was formed during a time when many African nations were still under colonial rule, leaving the continent inadequately represented in critical global decision-making forums.

“This is a long overdue issue. As you know, the UN was formed when most parts of Africa were colonies. That is why the UN does not deal with the realities of the world today. You get five countries sitting in a Security Council with veto power, and Africa is not represented—a continent with over 1.4 billion people,” Raila stated.

The former prime minister emphasized that Africa, with its 55 independent nations, deserves fair representation, especially given that Europe alone holds three permanent seats on the council.

“We shall insist that Africa must get two permanent seats in the UN Security Council. Permanent representation with veto powers—Africa must get. And this, I’m going to insist on when I’m elected Chairman of the AU. I will work together with all the leadership of the continent to ensure Africa gets fair treatment on the international scene,” he affirmed.