The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition issued a statement a day after its leader Raila Odinga declared his interest to vie for the Chairperson role of the African Union Commission (AUC).
In a statement on February 16, 2024, the coalition endorsed the opposition chief for the position.
“As Azimio Coalition, we welcome and congratulate our Party Leader for the bold step of putting his name forward for consideration of this most important role to the African continent and its people. We fully support his decision, and we shall back his candidature to our fullest capacity,” read the statement in part.
Azimio further noted that Odinga’s bid is an important opportunity for the East African region to head the AU Commission.
The coalition made a passionate appeal to the East African Community (EAC) members to support the bid.
“We call on all our compatriots to give bipartisan support and ensure that Mr. Odinga’s bid is successful. Mr. Odinga’s win will be a win for Kenya, the region and the continent,” Azimio noted.
Azimio went on to give reasons as to why it backs Odinga’s candidature at the helm of AU.
Also Read: Raila Declares Bid to Vie for Top African Union Job
According to Azimio, the Orange Democratic Party (ODM) leader possesses the necessary qualities needed for the role.
This is through the crucial and selfless roles he has played in the democratization of Kenya.
Azimio on Raila’s Dedication
Also, the statement highlighted Odinga’s sacrifices towards Kenya achieving socio-economic development, inclusivity, and stability, which according to Azimio, are well documented.
“He has always put Kenya first. These are qualities that we believe are needed for the next Chairperson of the AU Commission,” said Azimio.
On the other hand, Odinga was praised as a Pan-Africanist with the coalition confident that he shall leverage his Pan-Africanism vision of identity and inclusivity as AU chair.
Azimio further highlighted Odinga’s unparalleled track record of leadership in promoting democratic principles, human rights and good governance.
In addition, the opposition chief has been described as a bridge-builder with an uncanny ability to unify and foster collaboration among member states as AU Chair.
While highlighting Raila’s past leadership record, the coalition noted that the opposition chief has held a role at the African Union.
Raila at The African Union
Raila has served as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development.
According to Azimio, the former Prime minister best suits the role as he has transversed the continent and interacted with Africans understanding their needs.
Also Read: Raila Blames Media for Azimio Fallout Claims
Raila declared his bid to vie for the role in a press statement on February 15, flanked by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo who endorsed him for the job noting that he was a man with experience.
Obasanjo’s View on AU Leadership
According to Obasanjo, the African Union needed a person who came from a background that could make a difference in the continent.
“There is change of guard at the AU level soon, then some of us must take it upon ourselves to give proper advise. AU needs the right leadership at the right time. Obasanjo stated that the EAC should back the Azimio leader to allow the region to take over the position.
“I have no doubt that my friend who is standing next to me is the right person to take over the mantle. If the EAC region backs him, I believe the rest of the continent will support him.
“People who have held positions of head of government either as president or prime minister are most suitable for this job. Looking at it critically, it is the turn of East Africa,” he stated.
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