Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has announced his intention to progressively exit Kenyan politics as he intensifies his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, a position set to be filled in February 2025. 

Speaking during a joint press briefing with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Mr Odinga urged all Kenyans to rally behind him in this bid, expressing his vision of uniting Africa under a shared future. 

President William Ruto is expected to formally launch Mr Odinga’s campaign on August 27, 2024, underscoring the government’s full support for his candidacy.

Mr Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics and the leader of the ODM, is positioning himself for a historic role as the chair of the AUC. His official campaign for this coveted position will be launched by President Ruto next week, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape of Kenya and the broader African continent.

In a clear move to comply with the requirements for the AUC chairmanship, Mr Odinga assured the public that his exit from Kenyan politics will be gradual.

According to AUC regulations, any candidate for the chairmanship must refrain from active participation in their country’s domestic politics. 

Mr Odinga’s progressive withdrawal will allow him to focus on his continental aspirations while ensuring a smooth transition within his party and the broader political scene in Kenya.

During the press briefing, he emphasised the importance of unity across Africa, which he intends to champion if elected as AUC chair.

His vision, as outlined in his manifesto, focuses on advancing the continent’s Agenda 2063, a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of Africa over the next few decades. 

His commitment to this vision is grounded in his extensive political experience and his deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Africa today.

Mr Mudavadi, who shared the stage with the opposition figure, echoed the call for national support. 

Mr Mudavadi highlighted Mr Odinga's qualifications and his potential to drive meaningful change across Africa. 

He stressed that the entire nation should stand behind Mr Odinga candidature, as his success would not only bring honour to Kenya, but also contribute to the collective advancement of the African continent.

Mr Mudavadi also addressed concerns that have arisen regarding the selection process for the AUC chairmanship. 

Allegations surfaced that other potential candidates from Kenya were sidelined before their names were publicly disclosed. 

He however dismissed these claims, reiterating that Mr Odinga’s qualifications make him the most suitable candidate for the role. He added that President Ruto’s endorsement further solidifies his candidacy as the best choice for both Kenya and Africa.

As the campaign officially kicks off on August 27, 2024, details about the budget and logistics remain under wraps. 

However, it is clear that Mr Odings’s campaign will be an extensive one, requiring significant resources and support. 

The former Prime Minister is expected to visit all 55 African Union member states to garner support and present his case. 

His tour will be complemented by his participation in the “Mjadala Africa” debate, where he will outline his leadership vision and the strategies he plans to employ to achieve Africa’s 2063 transformation agenda.

His campaign represents a crucial moment in his long and storied political career. 

With decades of experience in Kenyan politics, he has been a central figure in the push for democracy, good governance, and economic development. His move towards the AUC chairmanship is seen as a natural progression in his journey, where his influence can now extend beyond Kenya’s borders to the entire continent.

The support from President Ruto marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political history, showcasing a rare moment of unity between two leaders who have often been on opposite sides of the political divide. This endorsement is expected to strengthen his campaign and position him as a leading contender for the AUC chairmanship.

As he embarks on his campaign for the African Union Commission chairmanship, his progressive exit from Kenyan politics marks the beginning of a new chapter. 

His vision for a united and prosperous Africa, coupled with the strong backing from the Kenyan government, positions him as a formidable candidate. 

The coming months will be critical as he seeks to secure the support of African leaders and citizens alike, in his bid to steer the continent towards a brighter future.