Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has now expressed his gratitude to several African leaders for their support of his African Union (AU) Commission Chairmanship bid. Notably absent from his list was former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, with whom Raila has had a close political relationship in the past.
In a tweet posted shortly after the official unveiling of his AU bid at a ceremony held at State House, Raila mentioned the Presidents of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Burundi, as well as former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Nigeria’s former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He thanked them for their encouragement, endorsement, and support as he embarks on this significant political journey. The ceremony was marked by the presence of these African leaders, symbolizing a united front in backing Raila’s aspirations to lead the AU.
Raila expressed optimism in his message, stating that together with these leaders, they could create a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Africa. His words highlighted the importance of collaboration among African nations to achieve continental unity and development.
The absence of Uhuru Kenyatta’s name in Raila’s expression of gratitude has sparked conversations among writers,given their alliance in recent years, especially during the 2018 “handshake” that ended a long-standing political rivalry, the omission has raised questions. It remains to be seen whether this indicates a shift in their relationship or if it was a strategic decision by Raila as he embarks on this new venture.
Raila Odinga’s AU campaign is set to be a significant chapter in his political career, with the backing of several key African leaders. As he officially launches his bid, the journey towards potentially leading the AU has begun, with hopes of fostering greater unity and development across the continent.
By Newsmedia