Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has elucidated his rationale behind endorsing former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the prestigious African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position. In a conversation with NTV journalist James Smart on Tuesday, March 13, Kagame emphasized Raila’s extensive experience within the international arena as a key factor influencing his decision.
Paul Kagame endorses Raila for AU Commission job
Highlighting their previous collaboration in 2018, when Kagame served as the African Union (AU) chairperson and Raila as the AU’s high representative for infrastructure, Kagame underscored Raila’s commendable performance in the role. “I respect Raila Odinga. I know his struggles. He was actually at one time representing the Commission of Infrastructure at a time when I served as the AU chairperson in 2018. He did a good job and has a grasp of it. We give him our support and wish him well,” Kagame stated.
Furthermore, Kagame expressed his commitment to continue supporting Raila should he secure the coveted position. Kagame asserted that backing Raila would contribute to the prosperity of the continent, signaling his confidence in Raila’s leadership capabilities.
This declaration from Kagame comes in the wake of Raila’s recent visit to Rwanda to seek support for his bid. Raila, vying to succeed Moussa Faki, who has held the AUC chairperson role for two terms, aims to bolster his candidacy with Kagame’s endorsement.
Importantly, Kagame’s backing significantly elevates Raila’s chances, especially considering that five other East African presidents have thrown their weight behind him. Notable among these supporters are President William Ruto of Kenya, Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC, Salva Kiir of South Sudan, and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda.
EAC backs Raila
The East African Community (EAC) is poised to present a unified front, fielding Raila as its sole candidate, strategically aiming to secure the coveted position for the regional block. Moreover, this move underscores the collective ambition to ensure representation at the highest level within the AU.
Finally, with past incumbents hailing from South Africa and West Africa, Raila’s candidacy presents an opportunity for East Africa to assert its influence within the AU. Kagame’s endorsement, alongside the support from other regional leaders, underscores the momentum behind Raila’s bid for the AUC chairperson position.
