Why Somalia's President Missed Raila Odinga's AU Commission Bid Launch

NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto of Kenya addressed the absence of Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud from the high-profile launch of Raila Odinga's campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairpersonship on Tuesday.

During his speech at State House Nairobi, President Ruto disclosed that he had received a personal call from President Mohamud, who cited "unavoidable circumstances" for his inability to attend the event. Despite his absence, Mohamud sent his apologies and reaffirmed his support for Odinga's candidacy for the prestigious continental role.

"I had sent an invitation to the Somalia president and he confirmed yesterday that he would not attend," Ruto explained. "He made a call to me and because of issues that went beyond his control, he did not manage to come today but sent his apologies."

The event, which aimed to rally support for Odinga's AUC bid, was attended by several East African leaders, including Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, and Salva Kiir of South Sudan. Also present were Burundi's Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.

President Ruto used the occasion to underscore the need for Africa to reform its institutions for better growth and development. He praised Odinga as "the ideal candidate" for the AUC chair, highlighting his experience and vision for the continent.

"Accordingly, Kenya endorses his candidacy unreservedly, and we commit wholeheartedly to supporting his candidature, his vision, and his leadership," Ruto declared, presenting Odinga as "a visionary Pan-African, a bold and wise leader, a professional and technocrat as well as a towering statesman and veteran mobilizer for positive change."

President Mohamud's absence, while noted, did not overshadow the event's significance in rallying regional support for Odinga's campaign, with the Somali leader's assurance of support indicating continued backing from Somalia despite his absence.

GAROWE ONLINE