President William Ruto announced that Equatorial Guinea and Togo support Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship, with Ruto seeking additional backing from African leaders at President Mahama’s inauguration in Ghana. This marks a significant step for Odinga as he aims to secure the position against other candidates ahead of the February elections.
President William Ruto has recently reported that both Equatorial Guinea and Togo have voiced their support for Raila Odinga’s campaign for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC), anticipating the elections scheduled for February. Ruto made this announcement during his attendance at the inauguration of Ghanaian President John Mahama in Accra, where he is strategically engaging other African leaders to garner further backing for Odinga.
During his visit, Ruto met with Equatorial Guinea’s Vice President, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, who assured Ruto of his country’s support for Odinga’s AUC candidacy. Additionally, Ruto had discussions with Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé, who had met with Odinga during the latter’s West African tour last year. Ruto shared these developments via his social media platform, stating, “President Gnassingbé pledged his support for Raila Odinga’s candidature for the African Union Commission chairperson.”
Ruto’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to consolidate support from over ten African leaders who are present at Mahama’s inauguration, highlighting the political dimensions of the event. The inauguration marks a significant political comeback for Mahama, who previously served as president from 2012 to 2017. He triumphed in the recent elections with 56% of the vote over Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who received 41%.
Mahama succeeds Nana Akufo-Addo, whose tenure faced notable economic challenges, characterized by Ghana’s worst financial crisis in years. This event, taking place at the emblematic Black Star Square in Accra, serves as a platform for strategic political maneuvering among African leaders. As part of Odinga’s campaign, he has recently travelled to Mauritius, where he was kindly received by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, who has also endorsed Odinga’s bid after Mauritius withdrew its own candidacy for the AUC chairmanship.
Raila Odinga, who celebrated his 80th birthday on Monday, is among three candidates contesting for the AUC position in the forthcoming elections, which include Djibouti’s current top diplomat and Madagascar’s former foreign minister.
The African Union Commission (AUC) plays a critical role in promoting economic development, peace, and security across Africa. Raila Odinga, a seasoned politician with a significant track record, is vying for the AUC chairmanship, marking a pivotal moment in his political career as he aims to elevate his influence on the continent. The upcoming elections are crucial not only for Odinga but also for the direction of the AUC amidst various challenges facing African nations, including economic hardships and political instability. The support from Equatorial Guinea and Togo signifies a crucial endorsement for Odinga’s candidacy as he seeks to rally continental backing among African leaders.
In summary, President William Ruto’s announcement regarding the endorsements of Raila Odinga by Equatorial Guinea and Togo showcases the strategic alliances being formed in anticipation of the AUC chairmanship elections. The political landscape is evolving as leaders gather at significant events, such as Mahama’s inauguration, to solidify their mutual interests and support. With the endorsements of key African nations, Odinga’s bid gains momentum as he prepares to compete against notable figures in the upcoming elections.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
