Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission chairperson, Raila Odinga, will participate in a live debate on Wednesday alongside opponents Anil Gayan (Mauritius), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti), and Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar). The debate, dubbed Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate, will air across Africa from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM EAT, offering candidates an opportunity to outline their vision for the continent’s transformation.
Held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, it will be conducted in six official AU languages: English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Kiswahili. Moderators will relay public questions to the candidates. This is the first such debate since 2016. Raila’s team, led by Elkanah Odembo, expressed confidence in his preparedness and ability to stand out.
As part of his campaign, Raila plans extensive tours across Africa, including Southern Africa, Northern Africa, and Djibouti, home to one of his main challengers. To win, Raila needs support from at least 33 of 55 AU member states, considering six are suspended due to political instability. His campaign has already secured backing from countries like Tanzania, DRC, Uganda, and Nigeria.
The outcome will not only test Raila’s appeal but also Kenya’s diplomatic strength and President Ruto’s influence on the continent.
