This gesture of political maturity elevated Raila's standing internationally, earning him respect and admiration from leaders and diplomats worldwide.
Raila Odinga's imprisonment in the 80s and subsequent struggle for democracy solidified his reputation as a champion of democratic ideals. His enduring resilience and commitment to advancing democracy earned him widespread support and admiration internationally, positioning him as a symbol of hope for democracy in Africa.
Raila's tenure as the Special Envoy in charge of Infrastructure in the African Union Commission provided him with invaluable experience and insights into the challenges facing the continent, making him a strong contender for the chairmanship of the AUC. Raila's deep-rooted relationships with countries across East Africa, coupled with his diplomatic experience and network of relationships across the continent, position him as a compelling candidate for promoting peace, stability, and development in Africa.
Additionally, Raila's close relationship with President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and his collaboration with leaders like Cyril Ramaphosa and Olusegun Obasanjo underscore his ability to foster cooperation between African nations and garner support for his candidacy. With Obasanjo's endorsement and extensive network, Raila's candidacy for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission gains further credibility and international backing, solidifying his position as a leading candidate for the role.
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, the father of Raila Odinga, played a crucial role in saving John Garang, the leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), from being extradited back to Sudan in 1994. At the time, Garang faced imminent deportation by the Kenyan government, which had come under pressure from the Sudanese government to hand him over. Garang's return to Sudan would have likely resulted in his imprisonment or even execution by the Sudanese authorities.
Recognizing the dire consequences that awaited Garang if he were to be sent back to Sudan, Jaramogi Odinga intervened on his behalf. Leveraging his political influence and connections, Jaramogi mobilized support within Kenya and internationally to prevent Garang's extradition. He rallied prominent figures and human rights advocates to advocate for Garang's safety and asylum in Kenya. Jaramogi Odinga's efforts were instrumental in persuading the Kenyan government to reverse its decision and grant Garang asylum in Kenya.
By providing sanctuary to Garang, Kenya not only upheld its commitment to humanitarian principles but also demonstrated solidarity with the struggle for freedom and justice in Sudan. Garang's stay in Kenya allowed him to continue his leadership of the SPLM/A and advance the cause of peace and self-determination for the people of South Sudan.
Raila has a great relationship with the president of the Democratic Republic of Congo Tshisekedi, having been involved in the process that had Joseph Kabila transferring power to Felix Tshisekedi. Raila’s experience and ability to navigate complex political landscapes is a platform that will enable him to foster cooperation between African nations if he is granted the opportunity to be chair of the Commission. As he continues to pursue leadership roles within the African Union, Raila's diplomatic experience and network of relationships across the continent position him as a compelling candidate for promoting peace, stability, and development in Africa.
Raila has been a prominent voice in African politics, both publicly and privately with political class. The current president of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa is another great friend of Raila Odinga. In 2008, during the post-election violence in Kenya, there were indeed discussions about appointing Cyril Ramaphosa, a respected South African politician and former Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), as a mediator to facilitate peace talks between the conflicting parties.
However, it was Kenya's Party of National Unity that declined Cyril Ramaphosa's involvement as a mediator for peace in Kenya. Led by President Mwai Kibaki, the PNU was cautious about Ramaphosa's role, fearing it might signify international interference in Kenya's internal affairs. The PNU preferred to handle the situation domestically, without external intervention. Additionally, there were concerns within the PNU about Ramaphosa's perceived alignment with opposition figures, given his past involvement in peace negotiations in other African countries.
The reluctance by the PNU to accept Ramaphosa's mediation contributed to delays in the peace process and prolonged the political crisis in Kenya. Nonetheless, mediation efforts persisted, eventually resulting in the successful negotiation of the National Accord and Reconciliation Act, facilitated by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and other mediators. Perhaps Ramaphosa could lend support to Raila, ensuring cooperation from the southern block.
Raila Odinga and Olusegun Obasanjo share a close and collaborative relationship founded on mutual respect in African politics and governance.Going back to the early 2000s, their partnership has been visible during key moments like the 2007-2008 post-election crisis in Kenya. Here, Obasanjo's role as Chairman of the African Union Panel of Eminent African Personalities saw him closely collaborating with Raila to resolve the political deadlock. Apart from politics, Raila has turned to Obasanjo for advice on governance and democracy, drawing from Obasanjo's extensive experience as a former Nigerian president and his active involvement in African diplomacy.
Their joint efforts extend to initiatives aimed at boosting economic development and social progress in Africa, showcasing their shared dedication to advancing the continent's interests and fostering peace and stability. Obasanjo's wide network of political contacts and diplomatic relationships may facilitate Raila in gaining support from other African leaders and influential figures within the African Union. Moreover, Obasanjo's endorsement would signify to the international community that Raila has the backing of a seasoned African leader renowned for promoting peace, democracy, and development in Africa.
Raila Odinga's relationship with North Africa, particularly with countries in the Maghreb region such as Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia, may not be extensively documented, but his diplomatic engagements and initiatives within the African Union and other regional bodies may have provided avenues for interaction and collaboration with leaders and representatives from the region.
Political commentator
