Deputy President Kithure Kindiki lauded President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for their vigorous campaign for the African Union Commission chairmanship, despite Odinga’s defeat to Djibouti’s Youssouf. He expressed pride in Kenya’s candidate and urged reflection on future bids. The voting results mark Kenya’s second unsuccessful attempt since 2017, with a call for strengthening democratic values within the continent.
On February 16, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recognized the efforts of President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in their campaign for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC). He commended both leaders for their vigorous participation, despite Odinga’s unsuccessful attempt during the recent voting in Addis Ababa.
Kindiki expressed pride in Kenya’s candidacy, noting that the country fielded a highly qualified candidate, even though Mahmoud Ali Youssouf from Djibouti emerged victorious. He stated, “We remain a proud nation that we came so close. Today was not our day, but our day will come.”
He further emphasized the strength of Kenya’s bid, highlighting the impressive credentials of their candidate and the clear agenda proposed for the continent. Although the effort did not yield success, Kindiki called for reflection and learning from this experience to strengthen future bids.
In the voting process, Youssouf secured the chairmanship after getting 33 votes in the final round, while Odinga was eliminated earlier with 22 votes. President Ruto congratulated Youssouf post-election, assuring him of Kenya’s support and reiterating a commitment to advancing Africa’s collective interests over individual ambitions.
This marks the second consecutive time Kenya has sought the AUC chairmanship without success, having previously lost in 2017. During that election, Amina Mohamed faced a similar fate against Moussa Faki from Chad. Ruto’s administration previously struggled to garner unanimous support from East African nations, which was critical for success.
Following the election, Odinga graciously conceded defeat, extending congratulations to Youssouf, and called for a renewed focus on democratic principles within Africa.
The article outlines the commendable efforts of key Kenyan leaders in their bid for the AUC chairmanship. Despite losing to Djibouti’s Youssouf, Kindiki and Ruto maintained a positive outlook for future endeavors, reinforcing the importance of strategic reflection to enhance Kenya’s international positioning. Odinga’s gracious concession further emphasizes a commitment to democracy.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
