President Museveni Backs Raila Odinga’s Bid for AUC Chairmanship at State House, Nairobi.
Yesterday, President Yoweri Museveni attended the launch of Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship at State House, Nairobi. Hosted by Kenyan President William Ruto, the event emphasized the need for strong Pan-African leadership to address Africa’s challenges, such as poverty and internal divisions.
President Museveni and Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga at State House Nairobi.
Yesterday, President Yoweri Museveni attended the official launch of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship at State House, Nairobi. The event was hosted by His Excellency William Ruto, the President of the Republic of Kenya.
In his address, President Museveni reflected on his extensive involvement in African struggles since the 1960s, emphasizing the critical need for accurate diagnosis in political management to address the continent’s challenges. He underscored the necessity of patriotism and Pan-Africanism for Africa’s prosperity, citing historical instances where internal divisions led to the decline of previously successful African initiatives against external threats.
Highlighting the essence of leadership, President Museveni stated that the role of AUC Chairperson requires vision, conviction, and knowledge. He passionately advocated for a united Africa, asserting that collective strength among leaders is essential for the continent’s progress.
Museveni addressed the ongoing issue of poverty in Africa, describing it as a significant barrier since 1965 that has hindered the continent’s growth and led to dependency.
Expressing his confidence in Raila Odinga, President Museveni remarked, “I’m here to support the candidature of Raila Odinga on behalf of Uganda because he’s a convinced Pan-Africanist.” He emphasized that leadership is not merely about career progression but is about embodying vision and conviction.
The President also highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and peace, defining these as strategic prerequisites for achieving universal unity within the region and Africa.
President Yoweri Museveni, President William Samoei Ruto, Presidents Samia Suluhu, President Salva Kiir and other African delegates at State House Nairobi.
President William Samoei Ruto expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the heads of state who positively responded to his invitation, urging the entire continent to rally behind Mr. Raila Odinga’s candidacy. Ruto emphasized that this support is vital for propelling Africa towards sustainable peace and a new era of shared prosperity.
He expressed his happiness that Raila Odinga is evolving from a national figure to a leader of African stature.
Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, addressing the delegation, shared his aspiration for a united and prosperous Africa characterized by peace and sustainable growth. “I am a lion living in the jungle, sitting on African minerals and at the bankside of Africa to transform all into wealth for the benefit of all Africans,” he stated. Odinga articulated his commitment to a transformative mandate that aims to enhance freedom and prosperity throughout the continent.
Emphasizing the importance of partnerships with heads of state, Odinga called for a focus on people-centered initiatives that restore hope by enhancing intra-African trade and achieving financial independence for all nations. He noted that Africa can only thrive through unity, as envisioned by its forefathers, by developing infrastructure, eliminating visa restrictions, and facilitating communication and transport, particularly for landlocked countries.
Raila highlighted the continent’s capacity to reverse negative trends and reclaim its glory through effective resource management. He shared his commitment to mobilizing the African people to tackle conflicts, address climate change challenges, and promote Pan-Africanism as a pathway to lasting prosperity.
“Pan-Africanism will turn potential into prosperity for generations to come. We must seize the moment for the African Union Agenda 2063,” Odinga asserted. He emphasized the imperative for institutional reforms to unify Africa and create inclusive opportunities, stating that transformation should begin in Kenya.
Odinga also raised concerns about growing threats to cybersecurity and reaffirmed that Pan-Africanism is foundational for democratic change. He displayed faith in his vision and credentials, positioning himself as a bold leader capable of driving positive change and empowering Africa on the global stage.
Other notable leaders in attendance included, of Tanzania, Salva Kiir of South Sudan, and Gervais Ndirakobuca, Prime Minister of Burundi. Former Presidents Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania and Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, alongside Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister General James Kabarebe, who represented President Paul Kagame, further endorsed Raila Odinga’s candidacy.
