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Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga on Tuesday, August 6 held a discussion with German Ambassador to Kenya Sebastian Groth and UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan
In a statement, Odinga said he discussed his African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson candidacy with the two envoys.
The former Prime Minister noted that they agreed on how a strong and stable African continent would be beneficial.
“Had productive discussions with Germany's Ambassador Sebastian Groth and UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan on recent developments and my AU Commission candidacy.
“We all agree: a strong and stable Africa benefits us all. Grateful for Germany and the UK's continued commitment to engagement,” said Odinga.
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Ambassador Groth on his part said he was impressed by Odinga’s German language skills during their meeting.
“Today had the pleasure to meet Hon Raila Odinga. Talked about Kenyan politics, his pan-African vision, and his student years in Germany. Very impressed by his German language skills,” he remarked.
Odinga’s meeting with the two diplomats comes a day after the African Union announced that the deadline for submitting the names of candidates vying for leadership positions at the African Union Commission (AUC) will be August 6, 2024.
In a statement, the AU pointed out that only names submitted before then will be considered in the pre-selection process undertaken by the Panel of Eminent Africans.
"Only names of candidates submitted by the region will be considered in the pre-selection process undertaken by the Panel of Eminent Africans. Further, only Member States that are not under AU sanctions are allowed to submit candidates," read the statement in part.
The AUC elections will be held in February 2025 during an AU summit with eight positions up for grabs including the chairperson, the deputy chairperson, and 6 commissioners.
On July 29, Kenya formally submitted the requisite documentation of Odinga who is aiming to replace outgoing AUC chairperson Mousa Faki.
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