Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC), Raila Odinga, is facing challenges from domestic political dynamics as he seeks to succeed Chad’s Moussa Faki as the next AUC Chairperson.

On Tuesday evening, Odinga made a statement during a burial in rural Kenya, expressing that despite his candidacy for the AUC leadership, his foremost priority remains stabilising Kenya for future generations.

“While I am running for the AUC chairperson’s position, my priority remains stabilising my home country for future generations,” Odinga shared on his X account.

Odinga, who has been accused of hijacking the Gen Z protests in Kenya, also mentioned, “When the country was in turmoil, former President Kenyatta asked me to reach out to President Ruto about the concerns of Gen Z and Kenyans in general.”

This statement sparked intense debate on social media, with critics accusing Odinga of “greed” for allowing his close allies to join the government as ministers.

Previously, regional and continental analysts expressed concerns that Kenya might be bringing its domestic political issues into the African Union with Odinga’s candidacy, a claim that Kenya’s top diplomat had dismissed.

Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s top diplomat, warned local politicians that their public statements could undermine Kenya’s chances of securing the AUC position.

“What most of our politicians are pronouncing themselves on might undermine our chances of getting the job and it is time we pull together and provide a united front for the sake of putting Kenya on the map of Africa and the globe,” Mudavadi stated in late March, urging politicians to prioritize national interests.

However, Raila’s engagement in domestic politics while vying for a continental role isn’t new.

Observers argue that President Ruto’s decision to nominate Raila might be a strategic move to weaken the opposition and secure his bid for a second term.

By nominating Raila and appointing his allies to ministerial positions, Ruto could be neutralising potential challenges.

Despite Odinga’s assertions that he will continue to hold the government accountable, his deep involvement in Kenya’s domestic affairs could divert his attention from the rigorous campaigning and responsibilities required for the AUC role.

This situation presents a common dilemma for leaders with strong national ties who seek to extend their influence to broader regional or continental matters.

The AUC Chairperson is expected to remain neutral and focus on continental issues, coordinating the commission’s work, implementing AU decisions, and representing the AU in international forums, rather than being entangled in the internal politics of any single member state.

Raila faces competition from three other male candidates, each of whom has experience as foreign ministers for their respective countries.