Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has endorsed Raila Odinga for the position of chairperson of the African Union Commission, The Herald reports.
Addressing the media alongside Raila in Nairobi, Obasanjo said he has no doubt that the Kenayan opposition leader is a viable candidate for the position if he is supported by the East African region.
“I have no doubt that my friend is a viable candidate but subject to views, feelings, positions, and presentations of our leaders in the East Africa sub-region,” he said.
The current chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat, is set to leave office in March next year.
Obasanjo, who is the AU Special Envoy, stated that he believes it is East Africa’s turn to hold the position.
“Not too long ago, we had Southern Africa, one occupying the seat now is Central Africa. Before that, we had West Africa,” he explained.
He said Raila should not be a candidate for his country but one representing the East African region.
“If the region can come together and put the candidate forward, then that is how it should be,” he added.
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