Rwanda's President Paul Kagame, on Tuesday, March 13, explained his decision to endorse former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson job.
Speaking in an interview with NTV journalist James Smart, Kagame credited Raila's experience at the international body as a factor in his decision.
He noted that he had collaborated with Raila in 2018, during which Kagame served as the African Union (AU) chairperson while Raila held the position of the AU's high representative for infrastructure.
Further, he revealed that he had respect for the ODM boss adding that he understood Raila's struggles.
"I respect Raila Odinga. I know his struggles. He was actually at one time representing the Commission of Infrastructure at a time when I served as the AU chairperson in 2018.
"He did a good job and has a grasp of it. We give him our support and wish him well," he stated.
Further, he noted that he would continue to support Raila should the ODM boss get elected to the position. Kagame explained that the support to Raila would ensure that the continent prospers.
Kagame made the remarks days after Raila travelled to Rwanda to seek his support.
The former premier is seeking to succeed Moussa Faki, who has served as the AUC chairperson for two terms with elections slated for February next year.
Notably, Kagame's endorsement will propel Raila closer to the powerful post that attracts a monthly salary of Ksh2.4 million given that five other presidents within the East African block have thrown their weight behind him.
They include President William Ruto (Kenya), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Felix Tshisekedi (DRC), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and Yoweri Museveni (Uganda).
On the other hand, EAC is expected to field only one candidate for the post as a strategy to ensure that the regional block clinches the seat.
Previous office holders Faki and Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma have hailed from South Africa and West Africa respectively.
