President William Ruto has announced the formation of a committee dedicated to campaigning for Azimio la Umoja party leader Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union (AU) chairperson role.

The committee, funded through the exchequer, comprises members from both the government and the opposition, with plans to expand its ranks for a stronger push. President Ruto’s efforts to garner support for Raila have already extended to various African countries, setting the stage for the opposition leader’s bid for the top AU job.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized the significance of Eastern Africa’s potential leadership at the AU, stating, “It is now time for the Eastern and Northern Africa regions.” Echoing this sentiment, Kalonzo Musyoka of Azimio la Umoja pledged full support for Raila’s campaign, affirming, “We fully support his decision, and we shall back his candidature to our fullest capacity.”

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo’s endorsement of Raila further solidified his standing, with Raila expressing his readiness to serve Africa if elected. “I have been consulting widely. I think I am ready to serve the continent of Africa,” Raila declared. If successful, Raila Odinga is poised to lead the African Union from 2025 to 2028, following Kenya’s next general elections.