Kenyan-Canadian Diaspora Root for Raila's AUC Chairmanship bid

            Raila Odinga signing off his AUC Chair application documents recently-Photo Courtesy

By Dickson Odhiambo

 

August 1, 2024

 

Kenyan-Canadian Diaspora Root for Raila's AUC Chairmanship bid

 

Kenyans staying in Canada have thrown their weight behind Raila Odinga’s bid as the next African Union Commission Chairperson.

 

The Diaspora say they strongly support Odinga’s African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson candidature. 

 

Led by Reverend Dr. Okoth Otura, a long time Odinga's confidant and Cornel Wasonga, the Kenyan- Canadian Diaspora says Odinga is a veteran politician who has been in the realm of Kenyan politics and political arena for decades.

 

“He is a true patriot, Pan Africanists and relentless champion of democracy and undoubtedly the father of democracy in Kenya. Odinga has served as Prime Minister of Kenya, a Cabinet Minister, and many years as a Member of Parliament for Lang'ata Constituency in Nairobi and opposition leader in Kenya,” they said in a signed Press statement.

 

They say Odinga has played a pivotal role in constitutional overhaul and transformation and shaping of the Kenyan political landscape and dynamics that makes Kenya hitherto an enviable and great nation and therefore strategic partner and ally of many global superpowers, adding that his political and leadership prowess is indisputable and unmatched.

 

“From our deep understanding, research and knowledge of The Rt. Hon. Odinga, coupled with his track records, we strongly believe that he will be able to blend strategic thinking with hands-on practicality as well as develop and implement operational strategies that would solve most critical complex problems and challenges faced by African nations. We are further convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that given his level of exposure and experiences he will be able to provide professional advice on array of issues that will help propel and catapult rapid growth and development of African continent, towards the realization of the transformation and the visionary agenda 2063,” the statement adds.

They further says Odinga will be able to develop strategies that are tightly aligned with AU goals and priorities and design organization and governance approaches to deliver the highest value, as evidenced and demonstrated in many numerous positions and roles he has held or played in the past.

 

“We believe and can just justify the fact that Hon. Odinga will formulate implementable strategies that will yield immediate and long-term sustainable transformation. Through his global networking and taping into the rich and unexploited resources of the continent of Africa Hon. Odinga will transform and take the continent of Africa to another level and endeavor to make Africa equal partner and player in the global socio-economic and political arena,” they further say.

 

The Kenyan Diaspora in Canada further say that Odinga is no stranger at AUC, adding that he has immense and enormous hands - on practical experience having served, with honour and distinction, as one who has been the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development, he’s well versed with the operations of AU that will help expedite the exploration, pursuit and attainment of AU strategic plans and goals.

 

“In conclusion, we, as the Canadian - Kenyan Diaspora, can state categorically and unequivocally that Raila is the best suited candidate for the AUC chairmanship position. In view of the above we pledge our sincere and unwavering support for his candidature and humbly request other players and stakeholders to do the same and he will surely make Africa great and make Africa the continent we want,” they further add.

 

The Kenyan-Canadian Diaspora’s sentiment comes barely a few days after the Kenyan Kwanza Government under President Dr William Ruto submitted Odinga’s name as their candidate for the African Union Commission Chairperson.