On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei, who is also a key figure in Raila’s campaign team, offered an update on the progress, giving an insight into Raila’s chances of winning the top continental position. According to Sing’oei, President William Ruto has taken the lead in promoting Raila’s bid, seeking support from African leaders across the continent.
President Ruto has personally written to all African heads of state, asking them to support Raila for the AUC chairmanship. These letters, signed shortly after his return from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, were sent to express gratitude to the countries that have already backed Raila and to persuade others to join the growing list of supporters.
Sing’oei explained that this approach has helped Raila amass considerable support. He shared that more than 60% of African presidents have already shown their willingness to back Raila’s candidacy, a significant achievement in the race for the AUC leadership.
“When we returned from New York, the president immediately signed letters addressed to all African leaders, presenting Raila’s nomination, thanking those who have pledged their support, and urging others to join us,” Sing’oei said. He further added, “We are not done yet, but I can confidently say we are ahead, with more than 60% of African heads of state behind us.”
Raila Odinga’s campaign is now focused on securing the remaining votes needed to ensure victory when the final election for the AUC chairmanship takes place in February 2025. Sing’oei highlighted that while they have made significant strides, there is still work to be done to get Raila across the finish line.
In the coming weeks, Raila is expected to continue his tour across Africa to garner even more support. Recently, he visited the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Tanzania, where he engaged with leaders and presented his vision for the future of the African Union. These visits are part of a broader campaign strategy aimed at ensuring that Raila secures as many votes as possible from African heads of state.
Raila's efforts are also being supported by the backing of the East African Community (EAC). The EAC countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, the DRC, Somalia, Burundi, Rwanda, and South Sudan, have all expressed their full support for Raila’s candidacy. This regional support is seen as a critical element of his campaign, as it strengthens Raila’s position among African leaders.
The election for the AUC chairmanship is scheduled for February 2025, and the race is expected to be competitive, with several candidates vying for the position. However, Raila’s campaign team remains optimistic about his chances. Sing’oei’s recent statement about the support they have already secured is a clear indication that Raila is a strong contender in the race.
Sing’oei emphasized that despite the positive developments, Raila’s campaign is not resting. The team is continuing to work hard, ensuring that Raila’s message reaches all corners of the continent. The goal is to build on the 60% support already secured and to attract even more backing in the weeks leading up to the vote.
Raila Odinga’s campaign for the AUC chairmanship is built on his vision for a stronger, more united Africa. Throughout his career, Raila has been an advocate for Pan-Africanism, and he sees the African Union as a key player in addressing the continent’s most pressing challenges, including economic development, peace, and security.
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