BREAKING: Big Blow to Raila Bid for AU Post As Organization for Islamic Cooperation Supports Somali Nominee

A decision by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to support Somalia’s nominee for the Africa Union Commission Chairperson seat may be Raila Odinga’s biggest setback, yet.

The Organization has close to 30 member states in the African Union and their wholesome support for the Somali candidate will certainly tilt the vote in her favour.

The Somali nominee Fawzia Yusuf Haji Adam is no pushover. She is one of Somalia’s most refined politicians and a globally recognised women rights advocate. She also holds the singular distinction of being the first female Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister in Somalia. Fawzia Yusuf Haji Adam has paved the way for future women in politics in the religiously conservative country and continues the fight for gender equality and women’s rights.

Both Raila Amollo Odinga and Fawzia Yusuf Adam are fairly competent for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission for the period (2025-2028). Both have unique strengths and weaknesses that could open a new vista in Pan-African relations.

Now that Fawzia has the backing of the Islamic bloc the vote is bound to come down to a split decision.

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