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Kenya’s candidate for the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship election, Raila Odinga, has received a boost in his bid to succeed the outgoing Moussa Faki.

Raila, in a statement shared via his official X account on Monday, January 6, 2024, revealed Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the Prime Minister of Mauritius, had endorsed his candidacy.

The former Prime Minister further stated that Ramgoolam had hosted him and assured him of his unequivocal support towards his AUC chairmanship candidacy.

“Thank you, Hon. Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius, for hosting me and for your unequivocal support towards my candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairperson,” Raila stated.

Thank you, Hon. Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius, for hosting me and for your unequivocal support towards my candidature for the African Union Commission Chairperson. pic.twitter.com/Fg0SYftxCG

— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) January 6, 2025

Raila marketed as EAC candidate

Early this month, President William Ruto and his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni united in rallying support for Raila, declaring him a strong candidate for the AUC chairmanship.

The two leaders met during the official launch and handover of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya.

Museveni emphasized Raila’s qualifications as very good, stating that he is well-suited to lead the commission and champion unity across Africa.

Together with Ruto, he said they are working to consolidate backing from other regional leaders, reinforcing Raila’s position as the preferred choice for this influential role.

Ruto also expressed confidence in Raila’s qualifications and treasury of leadership experience, stating his strong record in African affairs significantly enhances his candidacy for the AUC seat.

Ruto emphasized that Raila’s extensive credentials, which span various domains, and his proven track record as a unifying figure across Africa will be invaluable for the region.

“He will work to ensure peace in our area by effectively managing conflicts across the continent and building upon the successes achieved in East Africa. This includes promoting trade and investment, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area, thereby creating a vast market of 1.4 billion people,” he stated.

Ruto clarified that Raila is being endorsed not merely as a candidate for Kenya but as a representative for the East African Community.

“Before announcing his candidacy, we consulted with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who, as a respected elder in the region, recognized Raila’s potential. Museveni proactively engaged with other heads of state to advocate for Raila’s candidacy, confirming that he is the best choice to promote unity and progress,” Ruto affirmed.