In a whirlwind diplomatic campaign across Southern Africa, Raila Odinga has intensified his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson seat ahead of the February 2025 elections.
Over just five days, Raila met with six heads of state, solidifying his vision and agenda for the African continent.
The southern Africa push
Raila’s campaign blitz began on Monday, January 13, 2025, in Zimbabwe.
In Harare, he held discussions with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, presenting his manifesto for AUC leadership.
“We landed in Harare, Zimbabwe today to a warm reception courtesy of H.E President Emmerson Mnangagwa @edmnangagwa. It’s been a pleasure sharing with the president my vision for Africa and discussing my candidature for the AUC Chairmanship,” Raila Odinga posted on X, formerly Twitter.
Two days later, on January 15, Raila was in Namibia, where he engaged President Nangolo Mbumba at the State House in Windhoek.
He underscored his commitment to Africa’s progress and unity.
“We thank H.E President Dr Nangolo Mbumba @DrNangoloMbumba of Namibia for hosting us at Statehouse in Windhoek. We used the opportunity to discuss our African Agenda and my African Union Chairmanship candidature,” he said.
Building momentum
On Thursday, January 16, 2025, Raila continued his campaign with a stop in Botswana, meeting President Duma Boko in Gaborone.
“I continued with my AUC chairperson campaigns in the SADC region with a stop in Botswana. H.E President Duma Boko is hosting us in Gaborone,” Raila announced.
Later that day, he flew to Pretoria to meet South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at his residence. Their discussions revolved around Odinga’s 10 priority areas for the AUC.
“We have discussed my vision for the continent, and I got an opportunity to outline my plan for the African Union Commission (AUC) anchored on 10 priority areas,” Raila shared.
From Pretoria, Raila travelled to Lesotho that same Thursday, where he was hosted by Prime Minister Sam Matekane in Maseru.
“The day has ended well for us in Lesotho, where Rt Hon Sam Matekane, @MatekaneSam the Prime Minister, has hosted us in Maseru. Thank you for your time and the opportunity to share my vision if elected the African Union Commission Chairperson,“ he said.
The diplomatic blitz concluded in Mozambique on Friday, January 17, 2025, where President Daniel Francisco Chapo welcomed Raila in Maputo.
“We have landed to warm hospitality today in Maputo, Mozambique, hosted by the newly elected President H.E Daniel Francisco Chapo @daniel_chapo24. Thank you, Mr. President, for the opportunity to share with you my vision for Africa and my quest to be the AUC Chairperson. Obrigado!” Raila wrote.
Final push ahead of February vote
Raila Odinga is expected to continue his campaign in North Africa this coming week, signalling the final leg of his bid.
In support of Raila’s candidature, Kenya will host a special retreat for African heads of state and government in Nairobi on January 27, 2025.
The meeting, organized by President William Ruto, aims to solidify continental backing for Raila.
While Ruto will officially host the retreat as the champion of AU reforms, the event is strategically positioned to serve as a platform for advancing Raila’s candidacy for the top continental role.
According to State House Nairobi, Angolan President João Lourenço is among the leaders confirmed to attend the retreat, which underscores Kenya’s commitment to securing Raila’s election.
“President Ruto, who was given the mandate by fellow African heads of State to champion AU reforms, invited President Lourenço for a retreat in Kenya later this month ahead of the AU Heads of State Summit in February,” the statement read.
As of December 2024, Raila had secured the support of at least 25 African leaders for his AUC bid.
To be elected AUC Chairperson, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority during voting by the 55 member states.
Raila will need at least 36 votes out of the total 55, with each AU member state casting only one vote.
