Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has assembled a powerful campaign team as he pursues the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC). His campaign is led by Mahboub Maalim, the former Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and Elkanah Odembo, Kenya’s former ambassador to the United States.
The team is scheduled to meet with various foreign envoys in Nairobi over the coming months to gather support for Mr Odinga’s bid. The diplomatic outreach will involve meetings with ambassadors and high commissioners from different countries, beginning with the ambassador of Eritrea, who serves as the Dean of African Ambassadors. Mr Odembo highlighted that these interactions aim to build alliances and explore areas where Kenya could offer reciprocal support.
President William Ruto has already garnered backing from Ghana, with its President Nana Akufo-Addo expressing support for Mr Odinga’s candidacy. Recently, Mr Odinga engaged in talks with World Bank President Ajay Banga, focusing on Africa’s economic future. He also attended the World Bank’s IDA Summit for African Heads of State in Nairobi, alongside several African leaders.
Odinga’s campaign secretariat has tapped into the expertise of various specialists with vast experience in diplomacy and political strategy. This team, which includes former diplomats, brings with it an extensive understanding of continental and international affairs—skills that are crucial for shaping a compelling vision for the AUC.
The campaign team held its first strategy session in Nairobi last Friday, setting the stage for the final leg of the campaign. This initial meeting focused on crafting a robust approach to engage key stakeholders across Africa and communicate Odinga’s vision for the AU.
As the campaign gathers momentum, Odinga’s team is gearing up for the official launch of his final campaign in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Friday, November 8. This event will be a pivotal moment, offering Odinga an opportunity to outline his vision for Africa’s future and highlight his commitment to fostering unity, development, and peace across the continent.
With the backing of a skilled team and the support of influential allies, Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairmanship is shaping up to be one of the most formidable in recent years. His team’s expertise and strategic planning underscore his determination to secure this vital leadership role in the African Union.
By Newsmedia