According to a report shared on X formally tweeter by Kenyans.co.ke, Kenya has taken a strong stand against the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) decision to support Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar for the position of Chairman of the African Union Commission (AUC).
This move has created tensions in African diplomacy, as it is seen as a direct challenge to Raila Odinga’s bid for the same position. Kenya insists that such a decision should not be made based only on regional interests but should reflect a broader consensus among all African nations.
The dispute became evident during a recent SADC meeting, where the regional bloc formally endorsed Randriamandrato.
However, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Sing’oei, dismissed this endorsement, calling it an “afterthought.” He also raised concerns about Madagascar’s unique position in African politics, noting that the island nation is often considered part of both Eastern and Southern Africa.
This dual identity, according to Kenya, gives Madagascar an unfair advantage in regional lobbying, potentially undermining the principles of fair competition for the AUC leadership.
Kenya remains firm in its belief that Raila Odinga is the right candidate for the job. The country highlights his long history of political leadership and his influence across the continent.
As a former Prime Minister of Kenya, Odinga is seen as a leader with the vision and experience needed to drive Africa’s agenda.
Kenya has also pointed to the backing Odinga has received from West and North African countries, showing that his support extends far beyond East Africa.
The AUC chairmanship is not decided by regional endorsements alone but requires a two-thirds majority vote from all AU member states.
Kenya believes that the broader support Odinga enjoys will ultimately be more influential than the regional backing of Madagascar.
With the East African Community (EAC) expected to stand behind Odinga, the race is becoming more competitive.
This division between SADC and EAC could complicate the election, making it one of the most contested in recent years.Experts have noted that this election goes beyond African politics and is increasingly influenced by global interests.
The leadership of the AUC plays a crucial role in shaping Africa’s interactions with the rest of the world, and different international players may have their own preferences for the outcome.
Recognizing this, Kenya has stepped up its diplomatic efforts, engaging leaders across the continent to solidify Odinga’s support.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stressed the need for an AUC chairman with the ability to champion Africa’s development goals. Kenya argues that Odinga’s experience in governance, infrastructure development, and international diplomacy makes him the ideal candidate to lead the AU Commission. Kenya is expected to intensify its lobbying, setting the stage for a high-stakes political contest.
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