President William Ruto on Monday, February 26, met with his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni and Azimio leader Raila Odinga in Kisozi, Uganda.
Among the issues discussed by the trio was the Raila's candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairmanship whereby the opposition leader will be seeking support from the 55 member states to secure his bid.
Further, they discussed ways to deepen the bilateral ties between the two nations on commodities such as energy and petroleum.
"Kenya and Uganda are committed to the deepening of the long-established diplomatic and economic ties between our two countries," the statement read in part, after the trio's meeting at Museveni's home.
"This relationship includes bringing all the seven East African Community nations closer in their ultimate goal to form the East African Political Federation."
Photos shared on Ruto's social media showed the three leaders engaging in discussions while tending to cattle.
President Ruto is expected to officially unveil Raila as Kenya's candidate as he crafts a campaign to drive the agenda.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei recently told the media that Ruto would make the announcement this coming week.
"We look forward to working together to advance this important agenda," Sing'oei stated.
Further, the head of state will reportedly reach out to other continental leaders on a personal level to lobby for the former prime minister.
Museveni's vote for the AU Commission chairmanship is crucial in consolidating East African countries behind a single candidate, which would bolster Raila's chances.
Over the weekend, Ruto engaged in talks with Tanzanian counterpart Samia Suluhu at the funeral of Namibian President Hage Geingob, with many speculating that he was consolidating support for Raila.
The President already appointed Kenya’s former Ambassador to the USA, Elkanah Odembo, to spearhead Raila's campaign efforts at the AU.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi was also directed to initiate diplomatic efforts across the continent, ahead of Ruto personally engaging his peers.
Raila already enjoys the support of former Nigeria president Olusegun Obasanjo, considered one of the most influential African politicians at the AU.
