President Dr William Ruto on Tuesday officially launched the former Prime Minister’s candidacy for the Chairperson of African Union Commission AUC.
In his address in a function that took place at statehouse Nairobi, the head of state said that Raila Odinga embodies extensive experience and a deep understanding of both African affairs and global dynamics, which are crucial for leading the African Union farther into the centre of global affair and closer to the hearts of the people.
President Ruto said that Raila is a celebrated statesman whose longevity in leadership has been sustained by unrelating deiton to democratic challenge as the foundation of sustainable freedom and prosperity.
“I present to you a visionary Pan-African, a bold and wise leader, a professional and technocrat as well as a towering statesman and veteran mobiliser for positive change. I am confident that he will give his utmost and do all it takes to make Africa proud and powerful.” President Ruto said.
On his part Raila Odinda pledged to prioritise opportunity, dignity, and security for women and girls across the African Continent. Hon. Odinga thanked the regional leaders for support, and committed himself to translate Africa’s visionary sloganeering into strategic action for the transformation of our continent.
“Excellencies, I am ready to serve, my heart is ready, my hands are steady and with your support, I shall get the opportunity to be of service to Africa, the cradle of mankind. I am made in Eastern Africa for Africa.”- Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.
In the historic event, there was a show of solidarity where leaders from the East African Community (EAC) attended to endorse Hon. Odinga’s candidacy. Among those in attendance was President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Salva Kiir of South Sudan, Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca of Burundi and Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, James Kabarebe.
