President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday hosted Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga at State House in Harare, where Odinga sought Zimbabwe’s and SADC’s backing for his bid to become the next African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson.
Odinga, one of three candidates vying to succeed the current AUC chairperson Moussa Faki, expressed optimism about securing regional support. “I am happy to have been received very well by the President and to present my vision for Africa,” Odinga said after the meeting.
Odinga later shared his appreciation on X, saying, “It’s been a pleasure sharing with President Mnangagwa my vision for Africa and discussing my candidature for the AUC Chairmanship.”
As SADC Chairperson, Mnangagwa’s endorsement is pivotal for Odinga’s campaign, which aligns with the AU’s reforms to enhance transparency, equity, and merit in leadership appointments. The Eastern Africa region is tasked with nominating the next AUC chairperson, with North Africa providing the deputy chair.
Odinga emphasized Africa’s potential, particularly its youthful population, and the need for regional integration to harness resources effectively. He also called for a collective roadmap to address shared challenges and advance the continent’s development.
The election of the AUC chairperson will be held via secret ballot during the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 25, 2025. Odinga is expected to continue his campaign tour across Southern Africa to consolidate support.
