Kenya’s candidate for Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Raila Odinga, will take the stage this Friday in a live televised debate that promises to be a defining moment in Africa’s leadership race. This landmark event, broadcast across the continent, offers candidates a platform to present their visions ahead of the pivotal February 2025 elections.
Raila will join three contenders—Anil Gayan of Mauritius, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti, and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar—on December 13, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate will air from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM East Africa Time in all six official AU languages: English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Kiswahili. This historic forum marks the first occasion where AUC candidates collectively articulate their strategies and policies. Moderators will pose questions in English and French, with additional public queries sourced from audiences across Africa. The debate will be available on DStv Africa and various national broadcasters.
Raila’s campaign team, led by Elkanah Odembo, has expressed confidence in his readiness. “Raila is thoroughly prepared, and we are confident that Africa will see his unmatched leadership qualities,” Odembo remarked.
The debate will highlight candidates’ approaches to advancing Africa’s Agenda 2063, tackling governance challenges, fostering development, and strengthening continental unity.
Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi endorsed Raila, describing him as “uniquely qualified to lead Africa into a prosperous future.”
Kenya has actively mobilized diplomatic support for Raila’s candidacy, with endorsements from countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, Algeria, and Zambia. To win the AUC chairmanship, Raila must secure the backing of at least 33 of the 55 AU member states. However, the political suspension of six nations—Sudan, Gabon, Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea—has narrowed the voting field.
The campaign has seen Raila visit key regions, including Djibouti, home to one of his strongest opponents, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. He also plans to tour Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations in January to shore up support.
Meanwhile, the race took a surprising turn as Mauritius formally withdrew its support for Anil Gayan, leaving only three contenders. This follows Somalia’s earlier withdrawal of its female candidate, reducing the competition. With the debate on the horizon, the question remains whether this latest development will simplify the path to a conclusive outcome.
The election for AUC Chairperson represents a crucial test of Kenya’s diplomatic finesse, navigating Africa’s complex geopolitics to secure a historic victory.
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