The African Union Executive Council has made a significant decision to allocate the African Union Commission Chairperson role to the East African Community. This decision paves the way for prominent Kenyan leader Raila Odinga to compete for this prestigious continental position.
Previously, there were suggestions to block candidates from countries that had previously held the chairperson or vice chairperson roles. Notably, Kenya had held the position of Vice Chairperson from 2008 to 2017, with Erastus Mwencha serving in that capacity.
“The decision is per the Statute of the AU Commission, the Rules of Procedure of the African Union policy organs and the decisions of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government,” read part of a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“It is now clear that the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga will be in the race for the AU Commission Chairperson,” he said. “Effectively, there are no more technical or legal hurdles preventing Kenya from submitting its candidate.”
Additionally, the decision by the AU Executive Council allows the Northern African region to nominate candidates for the Deputy Chairperson position. Meanwhile, the Central, Southern, and Western regions will compete for the six positions of commissioners.
The African Union emphasized that candidates for these positions must demonstrate competency, leadership qualities, proven experience, and a commendable track record.