Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-15 18:27:50
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has announced that East Africa is ready to produce the next chairperson of the African Union Commission. He made this statement during the ongoing 44th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council of Foreign Ministers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Mudavadi also stated that the region is poised to field a candidate in next year’s elections, although he stopped short of explicitly endorsing Azimio leader Raila Odinga, who on Thursday declared his interest in the seat.
As the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Mudavadi emphasized the importance of East Africa being represented within the African Union structure. He highlighted that since 2002, South, Central, and West Africa have had multiple opportunities to hold the chairmanship, while East and North Africa are yet to have that chance. This indicates a clear intention for East Africa to seek a leadership role within the AU.
Mudavadi articulated the need for key consultations among East African member states to decide on a candidate to represent the region. This decision-making process will play a crucial role in East Africa’s bid to secure the chairmanship of the AU Commission.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary also stressed the significance of peace and security within the continent. He noted that amidst global disruptions and displacement leading to serious humanitarian crises in certain areas, it is essential for African countries to prioritize peace and security to ensure the well-being of their citizens. Mudavadi highlighted that peace is necessary not only for economic prosperity but also for societal well-being.
Additionally, he outlined the benefits of the AU’s participation in the Group of 20 (G20) and the need to further deepen the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. These initiatives are vital for the economic growth and development of the continent.
The theme of this year’s AU Assembly is “Preparing Africans for the 21st Century through Education,” reflecting the emphasis on education as a means to equip the African populace for the future.
Mudavadi’s announcement comes at a time when there is growing anticipation of a “surprise announcement” that he had hinted at during his visit to Raila Odinga’s home turf in Bondo, Siaya County. While attending a church function in Bondo, Mudavadi suggested that there would be significant and pleasant news revealed soon. This further adds to the intrigue surrounding the potential candidacy of a representative from East Africa for the AU Commission chairmanship.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo also endorsed Raila Odinga for the AU top job, echoing the sentiment that it is East Africa’s turn to lead the continent. These developments indicate a growing support base for a representative from the region to take on a leadership role within the African Union.
Overall, the statement by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi signifies a strong push for East Africa to assume a prominent position within the African Union Commission, highlighting the region’s readiness to take on a leadership role in the continental body.
Read the original article on Daily Nation
