Raila’s supporters flock outside Foreign Affairs Ministry offices ahead of AUC vote
By Cy Muganda, February 15, 2025A group of Raila Odinga‘s supporters have gathered outside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices in Nairobi, to show solidarity with his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
This demonstration coincides with the preparations of African heads of state to cast their votes in what has become a highly competitive race for the AUC‘s top position.
On Saturday, February 15, 2025, the group chanted slogans and sang songs in support of the former Prime Minister.
Wielding Kenyan flags and drums, they created a festive atmosphere filled with songs and dances ahead of the highly anticipated election.
Raila is competing against Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato and Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf in elections taking place today, February 15, 2025, during the ongoing African Union Summit in Addis Ababa.
AUC elections voting process
The election follows a rigorous procedure requiring candidates to secure support from at least 33 of the 48 participating member states.
According to AU rules, the voting may extend to multiple rounds if no candidate achieves the necessary two-thirds majority initially.
In the first round, all candidates participate in a secret ballot.
If no candidate secures the required 33 votes, the voting proceeds to subsequent rounds.
After three inconclusive rounds, only the top two candidates remain in the contest.
The candidate with fewer votes must withdraw if a deadlock persists; however, the remaining candidate must still secure a two-thirds majority to claim victory.
If a majority cannot be achieved, the election is suspended.
In the event of a suspended chairperson election, the deputy chairperson assumes interim leadership until new elections can be held.
Similarly, if there is a deadlock in selecting a deputy chairperson, the senior-most commissioner temporarily takes charge while new elections are arranged.
The election results are expected to be announced later today after the conclusion of the voting process.