Former VP of Seychelles Meriton supports Raila and withdraws his campaign for AUC

The African Union Commission (AUC) leadership has been vacated by former Seychelles Vice President Vincent Meriton in favor of Kenyan politician Raila Odinga. 

“I decided not to run for chairman of the African Union Commission because I couldn’t handle the pressure that comes with the job,” Meriton said in a statement announcing his decision on Saturday, November 30. 

In an act of solidarity, Meriton declared his support for Odinga, calling him the best person for the job.

“I would like to advocate for Raila Odinga today. New leadership is required at the African Union Commission as Africa asserts itself more globally. 

The contest is about selecting the continent’s finest leader, Meriton said, not about rivalry. 

“Odinga has a passion and determination that I respect. The continent needs his extensive knowledge as we reclaim our proper position. We can only get success with Raila Odinga. 

Following Meriton’s resignation, Odinga now has three opponents: Anil Gayan of Mauritius, Richard Mahitsison of Madagascar, and Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti, his main adversary. 

With fewer than three months till the election, the former prime minister is presently touring the continent and promoting his ideas for the African Union.