Senator Methu Challenges Decision to Send 100 MPs to AU Elections in Ethiopia

Concerns have been raised by Nyandarua Senator John Methu regarding the planned participation of numerous Kenyan lawmakers in Raila Odinga's delegation for the African Union Chair elections set to take place in Addis Ababa on Saturday.

In a television interview conducted on February 11, Methu criticizes the decision, referring to the potential misuse of taxpayers' money and questioning the need for sending a large contingent of MPs. Methu, an ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, emphasizes that Raila Odinga already has considerable backing for the AUC elections through his dedicated campaign secretariat.

He expresses hopes that the estimated 100 MPs accompanying Raila would cover their own expenses, stating, “We cannot afford to be wasteful. Raila Odinga has his own secretariat. In my opinion, the MPs have no significant role apart from the general support we are already providing.”

Reports indicate that the delegation accompanying Raila will include prominent figures such as President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and other senior government officials. Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah is expected to serve as Raila's chief agent at the AU Summit. The involvement of MPs, governors, and senators has ignited a debate among the Kenyan public, who are increasingly questioning the necessity and value of such attendance.

Simultaneously, ODM MPs, led by Makadara lawmaker George Aladwa, have offered prayers for Raila, expressing confidence in his prospects ahead of the crucial vote. Raila Odinga is viewed as a front-runner for the AUC position but will face competition from Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar. To secure the position, Raila must achieve a two-thirds majority, which requires at least 33 votes from the 55 AU member states.

Should no candidate reach the required majority, the election may proceed to additional voting rounds. A victory for Raila in the AUC election would mark a significant diplomatic and political milestone not only for him but also for President Ruto. Raila Odinga is poised to make a significant impact in the local political landscape, potentially either contesting the 2027 presidential election or endorsing a younger politician from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This possibility presents a formidable challenge for the current President William Ruto as he seeks a second term.

As the African Union (AU) gears up for its Heads of State and Governments' 38th Summit in Addis Ababa, Kenya is demonstrating a unified front. Although only heads of state are eligible to cast their votes, the presence of numerous Kenyan Members of Parliament underscores national support for Odinga's candidacy for AU Commission chairman. A candidate requires a two-thirds majority, or 33 votes out of 49, to secure victory. Foreign Affairs policy analyst Gordon K’achola remarks that the display of solidarity from Kenyan MPs reflects the nation's internal cohesion in addressing African challenges.

He notes that this collective action, showcased at the summit, could be foundational in lobbying for broader regional influence. The expected election dates are next weekend, with preliminary elections for six commissioners scheduled for February 12 and 13. In an interview, Odinga expresses confidence in his campaign, stating that he has conducted extensive outreach throughout Africa and anticipates overwhelming support.
As preparations intensify for the crucial vote, Odinga's Nairobi headquarters has seen a surge in activity, with many MPs seeking recommendation letters to facilitate travel to Ethiopia.

Odinga's entourage is scheduled to depart for Addis Ababa on February 12, and numerous dignitaries are expected to join him for the pivotal electoral event. Several close allies of Odinga, including Awendo MP Walter Owino and Uriri MP Mark Nyamita, have confirmed their attendance, emphasizing their belief in Odinga's suitability for the AU position. The AU, comprising 55 member countries, has six nations ineligible to vote. Should no candidate earn the requisite 33 votes in the initial round of voting, a second round will be conducted in which a simple majority will determine the winner.

Odinga's campaign has reportedly received endorsements from 28 nations, including significant support from Mauritius, Togo, and several East African nations, enhancing his standing ahead of the vote. However, the path to success is complicated by geopolitical factors, as there is no binding agreement prohibiting countries from reversing their commitments to a candidate.