Siaya governor James Orengo has endorsed the candidature of Opposition leader Raila Odinga as the Chairman of the African Union (AU) Commission.
A long-time ally of Raila, Orengo said the ODM leader has vast experience, impeccable credentials, and a great vision for the people and the continent of Africa.
“In him, Africa will have a powerful voice and will be able to develop an acceptable blueprint to utilize Africa’s vast resources for the benefit and prosperity of the continent and transformation of our people,” he said on X.
Orengo added that on the world stage, Raila will advance peace amongst States, turn boundaries into bridges of opportunities, and propel Africa’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council.
“I have no doubt that this new role will not exclude Raila Odinga’s participation in the affairs of Kenya as a patriot and citizen and all his rights and freedoms have not and will not be suspended,” he stated.
The Siaya governor added that Raila has built a political machine and nationwide base and support that cannot disintegrate.
He said ODM will remain a progressive movement and “a bastion of freedom, justice and democracy and the rule of law.”
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has also endorsed Raila for the position.
Obasanjo said he does not doubt that the Opposition leader is a viable candidate for the position if he is supported by the East African region.
“I have no doubt that my friend is a viable candidate but subject to views, feelings, positions, and presentations of our leaders in the East Africa sub-region,” he said on Thursday.
The current chair Moussa Faki Mahamat is set to leave office in March next year.
The new chair will be selected at the next AU summit, in 2025.
