Rigathi Gachagua Showers Praise on Raila Ahead of AUC Vote: ‘Undoubtedly the Best for Africa’

Rigathi Gachagua Showers Praise on Raila Ahead of AUC Vote: ‘Undoubtedly the Best for Africa’

Nairobi – In a surprising turn, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared Raila Odinga the best candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship. Gachagua, once a staunch critic, now believes Raila’s leadership will shape Africa’s future.

Raila is competing against Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Youssouf and Madagascar’s former minister Richard Randriamandrato. The vote, set for Saturday, February 15, will take place during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly.

Why Raila Is the Best Candidate

According to Gachagua, Raila possesses unmatched leadership qualities.

“Kenya’s finest, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, is undoubtedly the best bet for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Africa deserves the best. There is no doubt about Raila’s worldview and championship for African people,” he said.

Gachagua emphasized Raila’s ability to unite the continent’s Anglophone and Francophone divisions.

“As a continent, we need a Raila character to gel the Anglophone and the Francophone selves towards the continent of the future. His win in Addis Ababa imprints his quest for the Pan-African spirit he has lived and championed. Raila Odinga’s win will be good and progressive for Africa. His victory will be a win for Kenya, our motherland,” he added.

A Surprising Change of Heart

Gachagua’s praise stunned many, given his previous hostility towards Raila. He had repeatedly accused Raila of undermining governments for personal gain. However, after his impeachment in late 2024, his tone shifted.

During a recent interview with Kikuyu radio stations, Gachagua acknowledged Raila’s political resilience. “Raila has built a solid political party that cannot be ignored in Kenyan politics,” he admitted.

Raila’s Path to Victory

The AUC election will use a secret ballot system. To win, Raila must secure support either by consensus or by obtaining votes from at least two-thirds of the 48 voting African heads of state.

While Africa has 55 nations, only 48 will participate. Seven Francophone nations—Niger, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Gabon, and Mali—are suspended from the AU due to military coups.

A Possible Hurdle for Raila

Raila’s bid faces resistance from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). On Thursday, February 13, SADC urged its members to support Madagascar’s Randriamandrato. This move threatens Raila’s efforts to win the southern African bloc.

In January 2025, Raila had sought backing from SADC nations. However, their latest position could weaken his chances.

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Rigathi Gachagua Showers Praise on Raila Ahead of AUC Vote: ‘Undoubtedly the Best for Africa’