Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has commended former Prime Minister Raila Odinga ahead of the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson elections.
In a brief statement on Friday morning, the former DP praised Odinga, describing him as undoubtedly the best candidate for the African Union Commission chairmanship.
While expressing optimism about Odinga’s candidacy for the continent's top role, Gachagua stated that there was no doubt about Raila's global perspective and dedication to championing the African people.
“Kenya's finest, Right Honourable Raila Odinga, is undoubtedly the best candidate for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Africa deserves the best. There is no doubt about Raila's global outlook and commitment to championing the African people,” Gachagua remarked.
According to him, Africa, as a continent, needed Raila, who has the character to unite the Anglophone and Francophone regions in shaping the continent’s future.
Gachagua noted that the former Azimio leader’s imminent victory in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, would solidify his long-standing commitment to the Pan-African spirit, which he has championed for many years.
The former DP further reiterated that Odinga's win would be good and progressive for Africa and that his victory would be a win for Kenya, his motherland.
“As a continent, we need a Raila Odinga character to gel the Anglophone and the Francophone selves towards the continent of the future. His win in Addis Ababa imprints his quest for the Panafrican spirit he has lived and championed,” the former DP said.
Gachagua's stance on Odinga's AUC candidature comes barely a day before the elections which are scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 15.
The former Prime Minister will be competing for the top continental role against two other candidates; Djibouti's Mohamoud Youssouf and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.
With the campaigns over and the election preparation process underway, Heads of State from the 55 African Union member states including President William Ruto on Thursday, February 13, began arriving at Adis Ababa, Ethiopia for the polls.
Should Odinga clinch the top role, he will be tasked with presiding over the overall responsibility for the Commission’s administration and finances and promoting the African Union's objectives.
