The age restrictions established by the UN joint pension fund made former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid to succeed him as African Union (AU) president far more difficult. The fund, which administers retirement, death, disability, and other benefits, establishes an average retirement age of sixty to sixty-five years.
Odinga has a problem since, according to a source, all prior AU Commission chairpersons assumed and resigned their roles before reaching the age of 70. This development jeopardizes Odinga’s ambitions, despite his support from former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and Kenya’s Kwanza government, led by President William Ruto. Political allies and supporters of Odinga will keenly monitor his response and contingency plans in light of this setback.
Odinga’s campaign for AU chairperson is difficult and unexpected, exacerbated by the age restriction. It will be interesting to see how Odinga handles this issue and if he can continue to pursue the coveted continental position. This development emphasizes the complex dynamics of African continental politics and leadership changes, as well as the challenging skills and international standards that applicants for such roles must meet.
By Newshub