Raila Odinga, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, is set to meet with all African presidents attending the ongoing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing, China, as part of his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson.
Raila landed in Beijing on Monday, September 2, 2024, alongside President William Ruto, in what has become a pivotal moment in his campaign to secure the top continental role.
The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit, which runs from September 4 to 6, 2024, offers Raila a critical platform to engage directly with African heads of state.
Ruto and Raila arrive in China ahead of much-anticipated summit on September 1. Photo: William Ruto Source: Facebook
During this summit, he is expected to personally lobby for his candidacy, presenting his vision for the African Union’s future to secure the necessary backing.
Raila’s AUC bid has gained significant momentum, especially after a recent high-profile endorsement from East African leaders, including Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, and Salva Kiir of South Sudan.
These leaders officially threw their support behind Raila during a meeting at State House, Nairobi, on August 26, 2024, hosted by President Ruto.
Raila’s strategy involves leveraging the summit’s gathering of African leaders to build consensus and secure the crucial votes needed for the AUC Chairperson election in February 2025.
ODM party leader Hon. Raila Odinga. Source: Facebook
The election requires the winning candidate to garner two-thirds of the votes, amounting to 36 out of 54 African Union member states.
As Raila navigates the diplomatic corridors in Beijing, his meetings with African presidents are expected to be intense, as he faces formidable competitors, including Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Anil Gayan, and Richard James.
His campaign emphasizes the need for a united Africa that can leverage its collective strength to address challenges such as economic development, peace, and security.
President Ruto, who is also attending the summit, underscored the importance of Africa’s relationship with China, highlighting the significant infrastructure developments China has facilitated across the continent.
ODM leader Hon. Raila Odinga and Tanzania President Samia Suluhu. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
Ruto’s support for Raila’s candidacy could further strengthen Kenya’s diplomatic influence in the region.
As Raila continues his whirlwind tour across African capitals, the outcomes of his meetings during the Beijing summit could play a decisive role in his quest to lead the African Union.
His ability to connect with and convince the assembled African leaders of his vision will be crucial in securing their votes and, ultimately, the AUC Chairperson position.
