Another Kenyan Enters AUC Contest, Opposes Govt-Supported Raila
In a dramatic turn of events, Dr. Jephnei Orina Nyakwama has announced his candidacy for the African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson position, stirring the political waters in Kenya and across the continent.
The former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) presidential aspirant declared his intentions on Monday, July 22, positioning himself against the government-supported Raila Odinga.
Dr. Orina, who previously competed against President William Ruto for UDA’s top seat, is a lawyer with a commendable academic background, holding three degrees from Kisii University and the University of Nairobi.
He has been practicing law in the United States, bringing a global perspective to his campaign. “They don’t represent the aspirations of the populace, which is primarily youth. Africa’s median age is 19.7 years,” Orina told Kenyans.co.ke, emphasizing the need for leadership that reflects the continent’s youthful demographic.
Orina’s vision includes transformative initiatives such as introducing a common currency for Africa, creating a unified market, and establishing a Central Bank of Africa. His platform aims to foster economic integration and stability across the continent, a bold move that sets him apart from his competitors.
The race for the AU’s top position is intensifying as the August 6 registration deadline approaches. Candidates must submit their credentials and vision statements, outlining their plans to drive the AU’s transformative agenda and address the continent’s challenges.
The elections, scheduled for February 2025 during the annual AU summit in Addis Ababa, will fill eight senior leadership positions, including Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson.
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The AU’s rotation schedule dictates that the next chairperson will be from East Africa, while the deputy chairperson will hail from North Africa.
This structure aims to maintain regional balance, with each region required to submit male and female candidates. Currently, Kenya, Djibouti, Tanzania, Somalia, and Seychelles have fielded candidates for the chairperson post, while Ethiopian and Sudanese contenders are ineligible due to AU sanctions.
Kenya’s former Prime Minister and AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development, Raila Odinga, remains a formidable opponent, bolstered by government backing and endorsements from multiple African nations.
However, at 79, his candidacy faces scrutiny regarding his age and suitability for the role. “This is not about our local issues. We must project the national interest for Kenya,” stated Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s foreign affairs cabinet secretary, reinforcing the government’s support for Odinga.
Other notable nominees include Fawzia Yusuf Adam, Somalia’s former deputy PM and foreign minister; Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti’s foreign minister; Vincent Meriton, Seychelles’ former vice president; and Jakaya Kikwete, Tanzania’s former president. The diverse field of candidates underscores the complexity of achieving regional consensus, a significant hurdle for any contender.
As the AU prepares for these crucial elections, the new chairperson will inherit significant continental challenges, from institutional reforms to implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). With Africa experiencing multiple coups and ongoing conflicts, robust leadership is more critical than ever.
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Another Kenyan Enters AUC Contest, Opposes Govt-Supported Raila
