I’m Sure Most of My Friends Voted for Me - Raila Speaks After AUC Loss

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has spoken following his defeat in the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson election.

Speaking on Saturday, February 15, he expressed confidence in the backing he received from his friends despite the outcome.

"The voting was secret ballot so you cannot tell who voted for you or against you but I am sure that most of my friends voted for me," he said. 

Raila further explained his decision to concede defeat, and congratulated Youssouf, wishing him success in his leadership journey.

“I therefore concede defeat and want us to use this as an example of strengthening democracy on our continent. I wish Mahamoud Ali Youssouf all the best and success in his undertaking,” he said.

Reflecting on the electoral process, Raila expressed gratitude to all voters, regardless of their choice, for exercising their democratic rights.  

“I also want to thank both those who voted for me and those who did not for exercising their democratic rights. I am not bitter; I’m very happy indeed,” he further said.

Djibouti Foreign Minister Mahmoud Youssouf was elected as the new Chairperson of the AUC in a closely contested election during the AU summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 

Following his election, Youssouf will serve a four-year term, succeeding Moussa Faki of Chad, who has held the position since 2017.

The election process that took place in a closed-door meeting was rigorous, extending to seven rounds of voting.

Initially, Raila led the first two rounds, securing 20 and 22 votes respectively, but Youssouf gained momentum in subsequent rounds, ultimately achieving the required 33 votes in the seventh round to clinch the chairmanship.

In his statement, President William Ruto congratulated the newly elected AUC leadership and acknowledged the opportunity given to Raila to present his vision for the continent.

"While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for giving him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation.

"To their Excellencies Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, I extend my sincere congratulations. You have the trust of the AU Assembly, and Kenya pledges her full support to you as you steer the Africa Union Commission to the next level," he said.