By TESFA-ALEM TEKLE
Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, on Friday paid a visit to Eritrea where he held talks with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki.
Mr. Raila made the visit to Asmara as part of his campaign to solicit Eritrea’s support in his candidacy to become the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
President Isaias Afwerki met and held discussions this afternoon, 06 December, with renowned Kenyan politician Raila Odinga, who has recently announced his candidacy for the Chairperson position of the African Union Commission (AUC)
During the meeting, held at Denden Guest House, President Isaias and Mr. Raila Odinga discussed on themes of vital importance to the Africa continent including economic partnership and engagement; climate change; challenges of trade; critical importance of infrastructure to rapid economic growth and internal conflicts.
In a statement to local press, Mr. Odinga underlined that his one-day working visit to Eritrea was aimed at exchanging vital continental matters with President Isaias Afwerki as well as soliciting Eritrea’s support to his candidacy for Chairperson of the AU Commission at the next Summit in February next year.
In November, Raila formally unveiled his African Union Chairmanship candidature in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
During the event, Raila shared his vision and strategic priorities, aimed at driving Africa’s socio-economic transformation.
According to Kenyan media, Star, Kenyan president William Ruto himself has drummed up support for Raila Odinga’s African Union Chairmanship bid.
The President addressed the East African Officials where speakers and leaders were present during the East African Community (EAC) inter-parliamentary sports games.
He said that Raila’s leadership at the EAC will elevate East Africa’s position in Africa and the world.
“Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is vying for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC). His vast experience, dedication to pan-African ideals and commitment to fostering integration make him an excellent candidate to lead the African Union Commission at this pivotal time,” Ruto said.
“I call upon all EAC Partner States to rally behind his candidacy. His leadership will give East Africa a stronger voice on the continental stage, enabling us to champion our shared priorities, protect our interests and accelerate Africa’s development agenda.”
The President said that a united East Africa supporting Raila’s bid will not only demonstrate the collective resolve but also affirm commitment to shaping the future of the continent.
Raila is seeking to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat, whose term is coming to an end. The elections are slated for February 25, 2025.
