Ruto Urges EAC Bloc to Back Odinga After Past Disunity

President William Ruto has called on East African Community (EAC) member states to unite behind former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, underscoring the need for regional solidarity to secure the influential continental role.

Ruto’s appeal comes against the backdrop of past disunity among EAC members, notably Uganda’s failure to support Kenya’s candidate in a previous contest, which cost Nairobi the seat.

“Mr Odinga’s vast experience, dedication to pan-African ideals, and commitment to fostering integration make him an excellent candidate to lead the African Union Commission,” Dr Ruto said during the opening of the 14th Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa.

He argued that Mr Odinga’s leadership would amplify the region’s voice, enable the EAC to champion shared priorities, and accelerate Africa’s development agenda.

“I call upon all EAC Partner States to rally behind his candidacy. A united East Africa supporting his bid will not only demonstrate our collective resolve but also affirm our commitment to shaping the future of our continent,” he said

Addressing legislators from the EAC’s eight member states—Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia—Ruto reiterated the importance of regional cooperation.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives such as harmonising policies, expanding infrastructure networks, and enhancing cross-border trade as critical to strengthening East Africa’s competitiveness.

“The integration of Africa will be led by the integration of East Africa,” Dr Ruto said. “If the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement is going to be a reality, the engine will be in East Africa.”

He cited infrastructure projects, including a dual carriageway connecting Tanzania and Kenya’s coastal towns and extending the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to the Democratic Republic of Congo, as pivotal to deepening integration.

The Inter-Parliamentary Games, featuring football, netball, volleyball, basketball, and athletics, provided a platform to reinforce regional bonds, Ruto said.

“These games strengthen the spirit of solidarity and deepen the bonds of friendship as neighbours and partners,” he noted.

As the Chair of the EAC Heads of State Summit, Ruto pledged to champion the principles of the EAC Treaty, which emphasise collaboration, trade, investment, and improving the quality of life across member states.

“Just as a team must work in harmony to achieve victory, leaders and nations must also align our efforts to realise the full potential of the EAC,” he said.

Kenya’s President also underscored Kenya’s commitment to supporting continental initiatives that position East Africa as a global economic hub.

“By leveraging the vast resources and potential of our people, we can transform East Africa into a global economic powerhouse,” he said.

ligadwah@businessdayafrica.org