The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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On Wednesday, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga continued his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship with a visit to Algeria.
During his trip, he met with Algerian Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui, discussing his vision for the continent if elected and seeking the country’s support for his bid.
“I have been warmly received in Algiers by the Rt Hon Nadir Larbaoui, Prime Minister of Algeria. We took the opportunity to discuss and strengthen our brotherly ties,” Raila said on X. “I shared my vision for the African Union and emphasized the importance of strengthening Pan-Africanism for continental prosperity. Thank you, Prime Minister.”
Raila has been actively campaigning in countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), aiming to garner support for his AUC candidacy. Just hours after meeting with his longtime friend, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Raila arrived in Maputo on Friday for more discussions.
In Maputo, he was received by newly inaugurated President Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique for campaign talks. Chapo was sworn in as president this week, in a ceremony attended by Kenya’s Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Raila also met with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa during his tour.
“Prime Minister has hosted us in Maseru. I appreciate the time and opportunity to share my vision if elected African Union Commission Chairperson,” Raila said after meeting Lesotho’s Prime Minister Sam Matekane.
Raila is facing competition from Djibouti’s Mahamoud Youssouf in the upcoming AUC election, set for next month in Addis Ababa. In the final month of campaigning, Raila is leaving no stone unturned, meeting with heads of state across the continent to secure votes and strengthen his chances of making history.
Despite his active campaign, Raila’s team reportedly has fewer than 10 endorsements as the election approaches. Youssouf, who received support from the Arab League last September, has run a quieter campaign with occasional breaks.
