His bid for this significant continental position was officially launched at an event at Kenya’s State House, led by President William Ruto and attended by numerous high-profile African leaders and diplomats.
As Odinga embarks on his campaign, his strategy involves leveraging his extensive experience in African politics, building strong alliances, and presenting a compelling vision for the future of the African Union (AU).
The launch of Odinga’s campaign was a grand affair, symbolizing the importance of his candidacy not just for Kenya but for the entire continent. Key African leaders from the East African Community (EAC) were present, including Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu, and Burundi’s Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca.
The presence of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete highlighted the broad support Odinga is seeking from across Africa.
Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary and Prime Cabinet Secretary, introduced Odinga at the event, making a strong case for his suitability as the next AUC Chair.
Mudavadi emphasized Odinga’s vast political experience, his role in peace-building initiatives, and his commitment to pan-Africanism as key reasons why he is the best candidate for the job.
One of the main pillars of Odinga’s campaign strategy is building and consolidating alliances with key African nations. The attendance of several EAC leaders at his campaign launch suggests that he has already secured the support of these nations. However, Odinga’s campaign will extend beyond East Africa as he seeks to win over leaders from other regions of the continent.
Odinga’s long-standing relationships with African leaders, particularly in West Africa, could prove pivotal in this regard. His involvement in peace-building efforts and electoral observation missions in countries like Nigeria has earned him the respect and trust of many leaders.
These relationships will be crucial as he seeks to gather the necessary support to win the AUC Chair election in February 2025. At the heart of Odinga’s campaign is his vision for a more united and prosperous Africa.
His manifesto outlines an ambitious eight-point plan that focuses on key areas such as economic transformation, enhancing intra-African trade, achieving financial independence, promoting gender equity, driving agricultural transformation, taking action on climate change, fostering continental integration, and strengthening peace and security across the continent.
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