The government has responded to an invitation card that has been doing rounds on social media inviting Kenyans for a fundraiser in support of Raila Odinga’s bid for the Africa Union Commission (AUC) bid.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei on Wednesday, September 11 responded to the fundraiser invitation dubbed “An evening with Raila Odinga fundraiser in support of the AUC Chair bid.”
The card by Friends of Baba (FOBA) invited Kenyans to a Fundraiser Dinner set for September 18, adding that the event will be dedicated to supporting Odinga’s visionary leadership.
“Friends of Baba (FOBA) exclusively invites you to a Fundraiser Dinner with Raila Odinga. A night dedicated to supporting his visionary leadership as he embarks on the journey to becoming the next Chair of the African Union Commission (AUC),” reads the card.
“Join us on 18th September 2024 in Nairobi, as we unite with leaders and dignitaries from across the continent to help champion Africa’s future.”
On the other hand, the card highlighted that anyone who wanted to contribute towards this cause to send their donations to an attached Bank Account number and name.
Sing’oei flags FOBA fundraiser
However, PS Sing’oei has since flagged the invitation, noting that it is not from the Secretariat formed to lead Odinga’s AUC bid Campaign.
“We disassociate the Secretariat of the Campaign of Raila Odinga from this fundraising effort,” said Sing’oei.
The PS together with former Kenyan ambassador to the United States Elkana Odembo were tasked to lead the Secretariat.
On the other hand, Friends of Baba (FOBA) is an international lobby whose launch was announced by Jaoko Oburu, the nephew to Odinga in March.
Also Read: Govt Unveils Raila’s Campaign Strategy for AUC Chairman
Baba is a Swahili word that means Father in English. However, in the Kenyan political space, it is used to refer to Azimio leader Raila Odinga.
According to Jaoko, FOBA’s mission was to create a network of across the continent, whose focus is pushing for Raila’s election to become the next AUC chairperson.
He said the lobby will also set the grounds for Raila’s visit to the different African countries as he lobbies for votes.
“FOBA’s mission is broad-reaching, focusing on creating a robust continental network. This network aspires to have representation from every African country, establishing the groundwork for Baba’s visits to each nation,” Jaoko said in a statement.
“We aim to tailor his manifesto and general messaging, including conversations with Heads of State, to align with the diverse needs and concerns of each nation. Our strategy is solely hinged on strategically lobbying for Baba’s election to the AU Commission Chair.”
Raila Odinga AUC Bid
President William Ruto on August 27,2024 officially launched Odinga’s candidacy for the AUC Chairmanship.
Also Read: AUC Chair Bid: Features of Raila’s Website Launched During State House Event
This high-profile event was graced by a stellar lineup of East African leaders, including Presidents Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, and Salva Kiir of South Sudan.
The gathering also saw the presence of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete.
President Ruto passionately endorsed the former Prime Minister, praising his “extensive experience and deep understanding” of African and global affairs.
He argued that Odinga is ideally positioned to tackle the continent’s challenges and enhance the AU’s role in global affairs. Ruto highlighted Odinga’s track record of transformative leadership and commitment to Pan-African unity.
“Raila Odinga is a celebrated statesman whose longevity in leadership has been sustained by an unrelenting devotion to democratic change as the foundation of sustainable freedom and prosperity,” Ruto stated.
Odinga also launched a website for his candidacy to succeed outgoing chairman Chadian Moussa Faki which entails Odinga’s Vision and Priorities that he is set to undertake once he is elected as the new AUC chair.
The former premier now embarks on a campaign journey ahead of the February 2025 election in which he is facing competition from candidates representing Mauritius, Madagascar, and Djibouti.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
