Kisii County Senator Richard Onyonka has expressed his strong support for Raila Odinga as the closed-door voting process to determine the next African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson commences.

In a statement shared via his X account on Saturday, February 15, 2025, Onyonka emphasized the significance of the moment, stating that it could be the most important day of Odinga’s life.

He noted that Odinga’s extensive Pan-Africanist experience spanning over four decades makes him a strong candidate for the position. The senator also urged Odinga, should he win, to focus on critical issues affecting the continent, including conflicts in Eastern Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, and Kenya. He called upon Odinga to take a firm stand against corruption and advocate for democratic principles across Africa.

“Baba, Hon. Raila Odinga, today is your day! This will possibly be the biggest day of your life—bigger than becoming President of Kenya. Why? Because today Africa is watching you and praying for your win. You have the credentials. You’ve been a Pan-Africanist for over 40 years!

“Indeed, it has been a long journey, with its fair share of mistakes, but to err is human. Sir, if you win, please look at Eastern Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, and Kenya—your home country. Use your experience and influence to promote peace and good governance in these nations. And, please, do not forget corruption in Africa. Speak out loudly against it,” Onyonka stated.

Adding;

“Your legacy will precede you if you get involved and guide our continent’s leaders with fairness, honesty, and truthfulness. Let them know that Africa needs to be governed well, and for the young and generations to come, let them understand the reasons why you made the decisions you did. May you prosper this time—not just for the people who love you, but even for those who don’t.”

Programme

The election process follows a structured format. In the first round, all candidates are on the ballot. If none secures the required two-thirds majority, the voting proceeds to a second and third round. If no candidate reaches the threshold after the third round, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, leaving the top two contenders.

Should the remaining candidate still fail to secure the required votes, the election is suspended, and the deputy chairperson assumes interim leadership until a fresh election is held. If the deadlock concerns the deputy chairperson position, the most senior commissioner takes over in an acting capacity until new elections are conducted.

Following the completion of the election, the African Union summit is set to welcome newly elected Heads of State, including Joseph Nyumah Boakai, President of Liberia; Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal; Duma Gideon Boko, President of Botswana; and Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius.