Kenya has officially submitted the documents required for the official registration of Azimio leader Raila Odinga as a candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) 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 at the continental body's headquarters in Addis Ababa.
The papers were handed over to the Dean of the Eastern Region of the AU, Dharmraj Busgeeth, Ambassador of Mauritius.
“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 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.
While acknowledging the submission, the ODM party expressed its faith in Raila as a candidate, with the political outfit revealing that it awaits 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 Pan-Africanist 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.
Key among his priorities if elected will be African integration and infrastructure development, economic transformation, enhancing Intra-African Trade, and promoting the continent's financial independence.
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.
