WINDHOEK—Namibian opposition leader McHenry Venaani has officially endorsed former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the upcoming chairmanship of the African Union Commission. Odinga, noted for his substantial political and economic contributions across Africa, is one of four candidates in the running for this pivotal role.

According to Namibia Press Agency, he praised Odinga’s visionary leadership and longstanding dedication to progressive policies that have significantly influenced Kenya and the broader African continent. Odinga served as Kenya’s prime minister from 2008 to 2013 and has been a fervent advocate for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to enhance economic integration across the continent. Venaani emphasized that Odinga’s experience and alignment with AU goals position him as a strong candidate to further the objectives of the AfCFTA, including creating a unified economic space and promoting sustainable development in Africa.

Venaani’s endorsement highlights Odinga’s qualifications in driving reforms and fostering regional partnerships, which he believes would support the AU’s mission to promote stability and economic progress throughout the continent. The other candidates for the chairmanship include Anil Kumarsingh Gayan from Mauritius, Mahmoud Ali Youssou from Djibouti, and Richard James Randriamandrato from Madagascar, all from the East African region, in line with the AU’s rotational eligibility system.

The chairperson role is currently held by Moussa Faki Mahamat from Chad, who has led the AU Commission since March 2017. His second term is set to conclude this year, paving the way for a new leader to assume this crucial position.