Musalia Mudavadi urges the EAC to support Raila’s AUC candidature

_{By OPCS Press Service.}

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi has urged the East African Community (EAC) member states to support Raila Odinga’s candidature for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship.

Mudavadi said Odinga is better placed to represent the EAC region in the race adding that his credentials and experience places him at an advantageous position for the AUC job.

He called on the EAC member states to carefully evaluate Odinga’s candidature and make a resounding decision to support him.

“We believe and are certain that this is the time for our region to produce the chairperson who will be at the helm of the continental leadership. I urge all member states to keenly scrutinize Odinga’s candidacy so that we can speak with one voice” said Mudavadi.

Mudavadi said Odinga’s track record speaks for itself and he means well for the continent and in common his zeal to advance Africa’s interests globally.

“The deliberations that we have had at this ministerial meeting should guide us moving forward on what exactly is our point of focus and this will translate into the continental conversation moving into the future.” said Mudavadi.

Mudavadi also seized the opportunity to advance Kenya’s interests on matters trade, investment and security as pillars of the region’s integration efforts.

He said Kenya being a regional business hub and beacon of regional peace and democracy is keen to ensuring the EAC member states rally together for the common good of the citizens.

On his part Odinga underscored the importance of the regional representation within the larger African Union formation, emphasizing on the readiness of the East Africa region towards producing the next AU chairperson.

“The time is ripe for East Africa to assume to the helm of the AU leadership. The AU rotational leadership policy places our region at the best position possible this time round.” said Odinga.

Odinga said his visionary leadership in the multi-faceted transition around the continent is what he will be banking on.

He said it is time to take Africa and her interests to the next level and make Africa a destination for investment and unlocking untapped economic opportunities.

” My tenure as AU’s Special Envoy for infrastructure equipped me with the understanding of Africa’s challenges and the options we have to advance solutions to help move our continent into the next frontier.” said Odinga

Advocating for the opening of the African skies to foster continental integration and boost businesses, the two leaders urged the EAC member states to prioritize connectivity initiatives and build strong technological master plans to help the continent compete favourably in the ever evolving global market.

“African skies are crucial for enhancing connectivity and economic development that will connect Africa to the rest of the world. This should be an initiative that must be prioritised.” said Odinga.

Mudavadi also higlted the importance of peace and unity within individual nations and as a region saying without peace the EAC will lag behind in many spheres.

He said as the region navigates the common challenges facing it, it is key to ensure peace and tranquility prevails at all times.

“We must remain united behind our leaders to ensure that the regions peace is guaranteed. Leaders like Odinga bring both experience and forward-thinking strategies to address our regional and continental challenges,” Mudavadi said.

“We are grateful to President Ruto for his advocacy efforts and to our fellow heads of state for their open consideration for considering Odinga’s candidacy,” he added.

Odinga’s extensive experience in governance, peace-building, and regional cooperation uniquely positions him to lead the African Union Commission.

His tenure as the AU’s inaugural High Representative for Infrastructure Development and his advocacy for the opening of African skies highlight his commitment to advancing continental integration and economic growth.

“I stand before you as a candidate deeply committed to the principles of unity, peace, and development.” Odinga affirmed.

“Now is the right time for my leadership, as Africa navigates through a transformative period requiring strong and visionary leadership.” he added.

The ongoing ministerial meeting serves as a pivotal forum for advancing continental cooperation and leadership, with discussions focused on selecting a candidate who can effectively guide Africa towards unity, prosperity, and global influence.