A high-level meeting in Addis Ababa has sparked intense speculation as Kenya’s President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu convened with Djibouti’s African Union Commission (AUC) candidate, Youssouf, just hours before a crucial AUC chairmanship election.
This gathering has raised questions about its purpose, with a number of Kenyans suggesting that the leaders could be attempting to convince Youssouf to step down from the race in favour of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Even though the details of the closed-door discussions remain undisclosed, Kenyans believe the meeting may be part of behind the scenes diplomatic attempts to consolidate support for Mr Raila Odinga who is East Africa’s candidate in the race.
Ramogi TV anchor Lydia Okeyo reported that the presence of both President Ruto and former President Kenyatta at the same meeting raised eyebrows, given their historically strained political relationship. However, their joint participation signals that the talks carry significant regional importance.
Speculation is also mounting over whether the meeting is linked to broader diplomatic agreements aimed at strengthening regional cooperation. Given that former President Uhuru Kenyatta has been actively involved in mediation efforts, his role in these discussions has further raised curiosity about the agenda at play.
The elections will take place in Addis Ababa later today where Raila Odinga will compete against a Djibouti and Madagascar candidates for the race that will be determined by the heads of states.
By Newshub