Former Nigerian President Olesegun Obasanjo has endorsed Raila Odinga as the next chairman of the African Union Commission
Speaking to the press in Nairobi, Obasanjo has said Odinga is the best suited candidate because he comes from East Africa and has vast experience in the African political landscape having served in the union and became Kenya’s prime minister during the grand coalition government.
The former Nigerian president has also drummed up support for Odinga urging other African leaders to rally behind his candidature.
On his part, Odinga has accepted the endorsement by Obasanajo saying he will be keen to serve the interests of the continent when called upon to succeed Moussa Faki
“I am prepared to take on this challenge and offer myself for service. I have requested my friend, former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo, to continue advocating for my candidacy and engage with other leaders,” Odinga stated after a meeting with the former president in Nairobi.
Contesting for the African Union chairmanship means Odinga will have to shelve off interest to run for the 2027 presidential election, a move that will see his Azimio co-principal scamper to be the coalition’s flagbearer.
Recently DAPK party leader Eugene Wamalwa declared his presidential bid, as undertones suggest his Wiper and Narc Kenya counterparts are expected to follow suit
On his part, Odinga has accepted the endorsement by Obasanajo saying he will be keen to serve the interests of the continent when called upon to success Moussa Faki
Contesting for the African Union chairmanship means Odinga will have to shelve off interest to run for the 2027 presidential election, a move that will see his Azimio co-principal scamper to be the coalition’s flagbearer.
Recently DAPK party leader Eugene Wamalwa declared his presidential bid, as undertones suggest his Wiper and Narc Kenya counterparts are expected to follow suit.
Previously, Odinga served as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa from 2018 to February 2023, a tenure that ended amidst controversy.
President William Ruto is fronting Raila’s candidature, potentially reshaping Kenya’s political landscape as it may preclude Odinga from participating in the 2027 presidential race.