Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson seat Raila Odinga has concluded his campaign ahead of the elections.

In a statement on Wednesday, February 12 evening, Raila said he wrapped up his campaign in Burundi where he met President Evariste Ndayishimiye

“I concluded my campaign activities in Bujumbura, Burundi, today. I thank H.E President Evariste Ndayishimiye for honouring me with a warm reception,” said Raila.

The former Prime Minister noted that he is headed to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and thanked Africans supporting his bid.

“As I head to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the final stretch, I solemnly thank you all for your unwavering support and prayers throughout the journey of my candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairmanship,” Raila added.

The AUC elections are set to be held on February 15, 2025, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government.

Raila will be facing Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato in the election.

To win the AUC chairmanship, a candidate must obtain a two-thirds majority vote from the 55 member states, equating to 33 votes.

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.

Meanwhile, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has asked African Heads of State to vote for Raila Odinga as AUC Chairperson to ensure the fast-tracking of peace and stability in the continent.

Addressing the media in Addis Ababa, Mudavadi described Raila as a pan-Africanist who has a vast knowledge of Africa.

"There are conflicts in some parts of Africa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, Sudan, and challenges here and there. What we need is a leader who is ready to confront the issues, and Raila stands out and is ready for the task,” said. Mudavadi.