Raila Odinga’s defeat in the AUC chair election has led to discussions among his allies about Kenya’s potential exit from the AU. Supported by political figures like MP Peter Kaluma and Senator Ledama Olekina, there are growing calls to reevaluate Kenya’s commitment to the AU, with suggestions for a reduction in financial contributions and structural changes within the organization.
Following former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s defeat in the election for chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), his associates have suggested Kenya’s potential exit from the African Union (AU). The election, part of the 38th Ordinary Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, concluded with Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahmoud Youssouf, winning after seven voting rounds and receiving 33 votes from 49 heads of state, securing the two-thirds majority needed for victory.
Odinga faced considerable competition from candidates including Youssouf and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister, Richard Randriamandrato. The outcome has elicited strong reactions from Odinga’s supporters, prompting debates on Kenya’s position within the AU. Prominent voices such as Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma have indicated intentions to push for Kenya’s withdrawal from the AU and the East African Community (EAC).
The EAC is comprised of eight member states: Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania. In a similar vein, Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi has urged for a reassessment of Kenya’s financial obligations to the AU, advocating for reduced contributions or a possible exit altogether, reflecting broader concerns about the AU’s effectiveness in serving its members’ interests.
Senator Ledama Olekina of Narok acknowledged President William Ruto’s backing of Odinga while also calling for a reexamination of the AU’s structures. He provocatively questioned, “Why not divide the African Union into two?” This suggestion underscores the ongoing discontent regarding the AU’s governance framework and its impact on member states.
It is important to emphasize that the AUC chairperson election is conducted exclusively among member states under a governance free from military influence. Moreover, the role rotates among the AU’s five regions, with the Eastern region nominating the chair and the Northern region providing a deputy during this election cycle.
In summary, the recent electoral defeat of Raila Odinga for the chair of the African Union Commission has sparked discussions among his supporters about Kenya’s relationship with the AU. Prominent politicians have voiced intentions to advocate for Kenya’s withdrawal or reassessment of its commitments to the AU and EAC. This situation highlights broader concerns regarding the effectiveness and governance of the AU as it seeks to serve the interests of its member states.
Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com
