Kenya has officially submitted the required documents for Raila Odinga’s candidature for the African Union Commission Chairmanship position.
In a statement issued by the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, the government confirmed making the submissions on Monday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
“Under the authority of the Government of Kenya and as per the Statutes and Rules of the African Union Commission, we have today formally submitted requisite documentation of Kenya’s nominee for for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission, H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga, to the Dean of Eastern Region, H.E. Dharmraj Busgeeth, Ambassador of Mauritius, stated Korir.
The ODM party expressed their confidence in Odinga as a candidate and stated they are awaiting the outcome of the process.
“Submitted. In God we Trust,” the party stated.
The State Department on the other hand, noted that Raila was offered the position to represent the country based on his credentials including serving as the High Representative of the AUC Chairperson on Infrastructure and election observation in Africa.
“In this regard, Kenya has offered the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga for the position of AUC Chairperson. This decision is informed by Mr. Odinga’s Pan-Africanist credentials, his suitability, his vast networks across Africa and his proven competence to lead AUC Africa’s premier continental organization,” stated Korir.
According to the government, Odinga’s priorities and strategies will focus on a list of pressing issues within Africa.
Additionally, the government expressed its faith in Raila’s candidature noting that the country is a member in good standing within the AU and consistently meets its obligations to the Union.
“In addition, Kenya is an exemplar of African solutions to African problems through its financial support to AU’s initiatives, and leading role in peace, security and conflict management in the continent including in mediation efforts,” stated Korir.