Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga is poised to become the next African Union Commission Chairman, with the decisive election approaching in just over a week. Reports indicate he has secured endorsements from more than half of the eligible voting countries at the AU summit, yet his supporters remain cautiously reserved—a stark departure from their typically confident demeanor during past campaigns.
This measured response stems from previous electoral disappointments that have left deep scars on Odinga's base. His supporters remember instances when victory appeared certain, only to slip away in the final moments. The trauma runs deep enough that many constituents have refrained from premature celebrations, breaking their traditional custom of preparing celebratory attire ahead of anticipated victories.
President William Ruto's unwavering support has marked a significant shift in Odinga's campaign strategy. The government backing has elevated the campaign's sophistication and credibility, effectively sidelining informal lobby groups that previously characterized Odinga's presidential bids. Ruto has personally facilitated Odinga's access to African heads of state through bilateral and multilateral meetings, creating direct channels for campaign outreach.
The President's commitment extends beyond mere political calculations for 2027. His support acknowledges Odinga's status as Kenya's prominent democratic figure and Second Liberation warrior. The administration has already demonstrated unprecedented inclusion of the Luo community in key positions, including the appointments of the first Luo Chief of Defence Forces, Attorney General, and Treasury Cabinet Secretary.
The AUC chairmanship presents unique challenges for domestic politics. The four-year term, renewable once, would position Odinga above national political dynamics through 2029, potentially reshaping Kenya's political landscape. This transition could affect the cohesion of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) political bloc, which has relied heavily on Odinga's leadership to maintain unity among diverse ethnic constituencies.
Ruto's support for Odinga's candidacy also carries historical significance. It presents an opportunity to succeed where former President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration failed - both in delivering an electoral victory for Odinga and in securing Kenya's leadership position within the AU following Ambassador Amina Mohamed's unsuccessful 2017 bid for the same role.
At 80, Odinga maintains remarkable mental acuity and physical stamina throughout his continental campaign. His capacity for leadership draws comparisons to contemporaries like his brother, Senator Oburu Odinga, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who, at 87, actively supports Odinga's campaign across African capitals.
The upcoming election represents more than a personal triumph for Odinga. It symbolizes Kenya's diplomatic aspirations and demonstrates a notable example of political reconciliation, with President Ruto's administration marshaling state resources to support a former rival's continental ambitions.
This measured response stems from previous electoral disappointments that have left deep scars on Odinga's base. His supporters remember instances when victory appeared certain, only to slip away in the final moments. The trauma runs deep enough that many constituents have refrained from premature celebrations, breaking their traditional custom of preparing celebratory attire ahead of anticipated victories.
President William Ruto's unwavering support has marked a significant shift in Odinga's campaign strategy. The government backing has elevated the campaign's sophistication and credibility, effectively sidelining informal lobby groups that previously characterized Odinga's presidential bids. Ruto has personally facilitated Odinga's access to African heads of state through bilateral and multilateral meetings, creating direct channels for campaign outreach.
The President's commitment extends beyond mere political calculations for 2027. His support acknowledges Odinga's status as Kenya's prominent democratic figure and Second Liberation warrior. The administration has already demonstrated unprecedented inclusion of the Luo community in key positions, including the appointments of the first Luo Chief of Defence Forces, Attorney General, and Treasury Cabinet Secretary.
The AUC chairmanship presents unique challenges for domestic politics. The four-year term, renewable once, would position Odinga above national political dynamics through 2029, potentially reshaping Kenya's political landscape. This transition could affect the cohesion of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) political bloc, which has relied heavily on Odinga's leadership to maintain unity among diverse ethnic constituencies.
Ruto's support for Odinga's candidacy also carries historical significance. It presents an opportunity to succeed where former President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration failed - both in delivering an electoral victory for Odinga and in securing Kenya's leadership position within the AU following Ambassador Amina Mohamed's unsuccessful 2017 bid for the same role.
At 80, Odinga maintains remarkable mental acuity and physical stamina throughout his continental campaign. His capacity for leadership draws comparisons to contemporaries like his brother, Senator Oburu Odinga, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who, at 87, actively supports Odinga's campaign across African capitals.
The upcoming election represents more than a personal triumph for Odinga. It symbolizes Kenya's diplomatic aspirations and demonstrates a notable example of political reconciliation, with President Ruto's administration marshaling state resources to support a former rival's continental ambitions.
