Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei has downplayed the role of linguistic and religious affiliations in the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) elections.
In a statement on Monday, February 10, Sing'Oei explained that member states base their voting decisions on strategic interests rather than cultural ties.
"Linguistic and religious affinities are not controlling factors in elections at the multilateral level and will have limited bearing in this AUC elections. Countries vote rationally based on interest," he wrote on X.
To win the AUC chairmanship, a candidate must obtain a two-thirds majority vote from the 55 member states, equating to 33 votes.
The election process involves a secret ballot during the AU Assembly, where heads of state and government cast their votes.
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If no candidate achieves a two-thirds majority in the initial round, subsequent rounds are held, with the possibility of requiring only a simple majority in later stages.
On August 27, 2024, Kenya formally announced, that Raila would be vying for the position of Chairperson of the AUC.
President William Ruto presided over the event that was marked by robust endorsement by East African Partner States reflecting the broad regional and continental support for Raila's bid.
Odinga faces competition from Djibouti's Foreign Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar's former Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato.
The elections of the African Union Commission will be conducted as follows: The Executive Council elects and appoints the Commissioners during their Session on 12-13 February 2025.
The Assembly of Heads of State and Government elects and appoints the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson during their Session on 15-16 February 2025.
