East Africa Rallies Behind Raila Odinga in Pivotal African Union Leadership Contest

Foreign ministers from across Africa met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to prepare for the February 2025 election of the new African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson. The 22nd Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council, included representatives from all 55 African Union (AU) member states, along with officials from AU bodies and key partners. Musalia Mudavadi, a top Kenyan official, attended to discuss the upcoming election to replace Moussa Faki, the current AUC Chairperson since 2017.

The focus is on establishing the election process for the new chairperson and leadership. Tanzania’s Foreign Minister, January Makamba, highlighted the desire for the next chairperson to be from East Africa. Kenya and Somalia have nominated candidates, with Kenya backing Raila Odinga, a prominent political figure who is rallying support across Africa. Odinga, with a history of serving the AU in infrastructure development, has garnered endorsements from several East African leaders, showcasing regional backing for his candidacy.

Rwanda President Paul Kagame has publicly announced his support for Raila Odinga in the race for African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.

Speaking to a local TV station, Kagame heaped praises on Raila, citing his previous work as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development.

“I respect Raila Odinga. I know his struggles. He did a good job (as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development). We give him our support and wish him well not only now but when he is there (as the chair) for Africa to succeed,” Kagame said.

However, Somalia’s entry into the East African Community introduces a potential challenge with its candidate, Fawzia Yusuf Adam, emphasizing governance, democracy, and human rights. The AUC’s leadership, including the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, is elected by the AU Assembly and the Executive Council, serving four-year terms that can be renewed once. Recent reforms aim to improve the selection process’s transparency and meritocracy, focusing on regional balance, gender equality, and attracting Africa’s best talents.