Kenya has nominated Raila Odinga for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, with elections set for February 2025.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei presented the nomination in Addis Ababa to the Eastern Region Dean Dharmraj Busgeeth, Ambassador of Mauritius, and AU Legal Counsel Hajer Gueldich. Kenya chose Odinga to succeed Moussa Faki, who has been AUC chair since 2017.

Sing’oei confirmed the preparatory processes were complete, stating, “All set to go,” while showcasing translated documents for Odinga’s candidacy.

Kenya announced the establishment of a campaign secretariat led by the State Department for Foreign Affairs to boost Odinga’s chances. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the team, including Odinga’s strategists, would prepare briefs, develop campaign materials, and prepare for a candidate debate.

Odinga has received endorsements from several countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Algeria. He is competing against candidates from Eastern Africa, such as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Youssouf, Somalia’s former Deputy Prime Minister Fawzia Yusuf, and Seychelles’ former Vice President Vincent Meriton. Tanzania might also enter the race with former Foreign Minister January Makamba.

Odinga expressed surprise at the government’s decision to back him, stating it was his personal decision to run after much consultation. He refuted claims that the government’s support was a move to block him from the 2027 presidential race. Mudavadi emphasized that Odinga’s qualifications and commitment to Africa’s interests were the reasons for their support.

The AU will use inter-regional rotation for the February 2025 election, allowing the Eastern bloc to produce the AUC chair. The AUC structure includes a Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, and six Commissioners.