AUC Election Insights: PS Sing’Oei Confident in Raila’s Candidacy Despite SADC Letter
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PS Sing’Oei discusses Raila Odinga’s confidence in the upcoming AUC elections, highlighting a SADC letter urging support for Madagascar’s candidate, but clarifies that it lacks definitive endorsement. Sing’Oei asserts that Raila’s team is actively seeking votes from SADC members and calls for reforms in the AU regarding regional representation.
During an interview with Citizen TV at the 38th Ordinary African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, PS Sing’Oei expressed confidence in Raila Odinga’s candidacy. He noted that a letter from the SADC Secretary General was merely a request for member states to support Madagascar’s candidate but did not guarantee unanimous endorsement.
Sing’Oei explained that the letter, drafted just five days before the elections on February 15, does not imply state-level approval. “This means that the decision will not be endorsed at the heads of state level,” he emphasized.
He further remarked that Raila’s team has been actively collaborating with various African leaders in the SADC region to gather crucial support. Key figures, including President William Ruto, have been engaged in strategic outreach to ensure a solid voting base.
Moreover, Sing’Oei highlighted the need for reforms within the African Union, pointing out the complications arising from Madagascar’s dual regional representation. He asserted that elections should reflect the candidacy of a member from the Eastern region, considering Madagascar’s geographical categorization.
As the elections approach, all eyes are on the potential implications of the SADC’s letter and the strength of Raila Odinga’s campaign efforts. The PS expressed optimism, stating, “We already have quite some assurances from a number of SADC countries of their support.”
In summary, the upcoming African Union elections, set for February 15, will witness a competitive landscape involving candidates from different regions. PS Sing’Oei reaffirmed Raila Odinga’s strong campaign and support, despite the SADC’s recent letter advocating for Madagascar’s candidate. He emphasized the need for clear representation and reforms within the African Union to ensure fair elections.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital