PS Sing’Oei expressed optimism for Raila Odinga in the upcoming AUC elections, despite a last-minute letter from the SADC Secretary General urging support for Madagascar. He emphasized that this letter is not an endorsement and raised concerns about Madagascar’s eligibility as a candidate from the Eastern region. Final campaign efforts have been intensified as elections approach on February 15.

During the 38th Ordinary African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, PS Sing’Oei discussed Raila Odinga’s confidence as an AUC election candidate amidst a letter from the SADC Secretary General asking for member states’ support for Madagascar. Sing’Oei clarified that this letter is not an official endorsement and may not significantly affect the election outcome. He emphasized that it was a plea to foreign ministers made shortly before the elections, which raises concerns about Madagascar’s eligibility, as it straddles both Eastern and Southern regions.

The PS highlighted the urgency of the situation as Raila’s campaign has been actively engaging with SADC countries. He noted that with mere hours before the election, they have mobilized support from several leaders across the region. Additionally, both President William Ruto and the Prime CS have been making strategic communications to bolster Raila’s candidacy. Sing’Oei mentioned that the election is not just about Madagascar but about equitable representation from the Eastern region in the African Union.

Sing’Oei claimed that Madagascar’s representation in the Eastern region could contradict the fairness of the election process because the country should rightfully be contesting within the Southern region, depending on the turn. He articulated the need for reforms in the African Union to address these critical challenges. As the high-stakes elections approach on February 15, the necessity for clarity and representation remains paramount in the process.

In conclusion, the upcoming AUC elections present a challenge for Raila Odinga amidst last-minute maneuvers by SADC for Madagascar’s support. While Sing’Oei remains optimistic about Raila’s chances, concerns over fair representation within the African Union necessitate a discussion on reforms. The actions taken by Raila’s campaign indicate significant efforts to secure votes, emphasizing the critical nature of these elections for regional representation.

Original Source: www.citizen.digital