The race for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson seat has taken an interesting turn following reports that the Djiboutian candidate was planning to step down in favor of Kenya’s Raila Odinga.
These claims, however, have been dismissed as fake news by Djibouti, with officials insisting that their candidate is firmly in the race.
The clarification came after rumors circulated widely, creating speculation about potential alliances in the lead-up to the elections.
A senior Djiboutian diplomat has categorically denied the claims, emphasizing that their campaign is ongoing and gaining momentum.
Speaking from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where the Djiboutian team is currently campaigning, the diplomat dismissed the rumors, stating, “We are in Dar es Salaam today. Don’t worry, dear brother. We are intensifying our campaign.”
This statement underscores Djibouti’s determination to remain a strong contender in the race for the AUC Chairperson position.
The rumors appear to have been fueled by earlier reports from Seth Olale of Citizen TV, who claimed that the Djiboutian candidate was set to address the press and announce his withdrawal from the race.
According to Olale, the announcement would have confirmed the candidate’s decision to step aside in favor of Raila Odinga.
However, this anticipated press conference never materialized, and Djibouti has since firmly denied any intention of withdrawing from the race.
Mwangi Maina, another journalist who has been closely following the developments, was among the first to share the Djiboutian side of the story, countering the withdrawal rumors.
His updates highlighted that Djibouti remains focused on its campaign and has no plans to step aside for any candidate, including Odinga.
The Djiboutian candidate is widely regarded as one of the strongest competitors in the race to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat as AUC Chairperson.
His withdrawal would have shifted the dynamics of the race, potentially giving Odinga a clearer path to victory.
However, with Djibouti doubling down on its efforts, the competition is expected to remain intense as both candidates vie for the crucial role.
As the elections approach, the rivalry between the two candidates is set to intensify.
While Raila Odinga enjoys considerable backing from some quarters, the Djiboutian candidate’s persistence and growing campaign efforts in the region suggest a tough battle ahead.
Both sides will likely continue mobilizing support, making this one of the most closely watched contests in recent years.
The fake news surrounding Djibouti’s alleged withdrawal has only added more intrigue to an already high-stakes race.
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