Kenyan candidate for Africa Union Commission (AUC) Raila Odinga has lost his bid to become the next chair of the commission. The Kenyan candidate was eliminated in the sixth round during the secret voting session that was happening in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
While speaking with the press shortly after the new AUC chair Mahmoud Youssouf was announced, Raila Odinga acknowledged both those countries that voted for and against him. The Kenyan opposition leader said the election was about Democracy and other countries should emulate. Odinga appreciated
“As I concede the defeat, I want to use this as an example of strengthening Democracy in our continent and therefore want to wish my competitor Youssef Ali all the best and success in his new undertaking.”
Kenyan President William Ruto congratulated Mahmoud Youssouf for being victorious and expressed Kenyan’s willingness to support him, adding that the election was about Africa’s betterment and unity.
“To their Excellencies Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, I extend my sincere congratulations. You have the trust of the AU Assembly, and Kenya pledges her full support to you as you steer the Africa Union Commission to the next level.”
The President appreciated the African leaders for giving Raila Odinga a platform to express what plans he had for Africa.
“While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent,” Ruto said.
