Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has expressed strong support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC), with elections set to take place next month in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Speaking at the Piny Luo cultural festival in Siaya County, Museveni likened Raila to the biblical John the Baptist, emphasizing their shared fervor for advocating their beliefs.
Museveni stated that any ideology or policy proposed by Raila should receive backing from government officials should he secure the position, declaring this approach essential for success over the next four years. “We’re supporting Raila for the AUC chairmanship. He will assist us in mobilization and brainstorming, but the real power lies with us here,” he explained.
The event was attended by a number of prominent leaders, including President William Ruto, Raila Odinga, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and others.
Echoing Museveni’s sentiments, President Ruto highlighted that Raila’s potential victory would represent a significant win for Africa as a whole. “Raila is not just a candidate for Kenya; he is a candidate for East Africa,” Ruto stated. He went on to emphasize that prior to endorsing Raila, discussions were held with Museveni and other East African heads of state to confirm that Raila is the right candidate with the credentials necessary to foster unity and progress across the continent.
Ruto expressed confidence in the growing support for Raila’s candidature, citing his extensive experience as a pan-African leader. “His proven track record will be invaluable in ensuring peace, managing conflicts, and fostering investments in a market of 1.4 billion people,” Ruto added.
As the election date approaches, the backing from influential leaders like Museveni and Ruto underscores Raila Odinga’s potential impact on the future of Africa’s governance and unity.
