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Johnson Oduk
The enigma,Raila Amolo Odinga is by no doubt one of the most decorated pro-democracy leaders in Africa.
He is known globally for his astiitute and aggressive push for democracy in independent Africa.This is why it was easy for him to be appointed the African Union representative for Infrastructure.He is a man well respected in Africa.
Today,Odinga is lobbying to be elected the African Union Commision ( AUC) chairman and he is odds favourite to win it.This is because Raila is the best candidate for the seat.
While Djibouti and Somalia have produced candidates,it is highly expected that they will eventually drop out and support Raila”s bid.
The Commission chairperson is like the CEO of the AU Secretariat, elected every four years.
The African Union (AU) Commission chairperson is the topmost official of the continental bloc.
Often confused with the African Union chairperson (an annual, ceremonial rotational post between heads of state and governments), the Commission chairperson is like the chief executive officer of the AU Secretariat, elected every four years, and their mandate renewable once.
Under the old Organisation of African Unity (OAU), this position used to be called secretary-general, even though it had weaker powers then.
Since 2002 when the AU inherited and appended the roles of the OAU, we see more of the Commission chairperson speaking, condemning, criticising or praising.
Still, this is a full-time diplomatic job with a basic monthly salary of $15,576.75, $250 monthly allowance per eligible child, 100 percent school fee payment for every eligible child of the official in Africa or up to $15,000 per year if the station is in Europe or North America and $6,000 in rental budget. Their speeches, though, must be tailored and actions measured in every step they take.
The holder has overall responsibility for the Commission’s administration and finances. He/she is also supposed to promote and popularise the AU’s objectives and enhance its performance.
Most importantly, he/she is supposed to consult and coordinate with key stakeholders like Member States, Development Partners, and regional economic blocs.
The roles include facilitating the functioning, decision-making and reporting of all AU organ meetings, and ensuring conformity and harmony with agreed AU policies, strategies, programmes and projects.
Preparing with the permanent representatives from AU Member States (PRC) the AU budget and strategic planning documents; acting as a depository for all AU and OAU treaties and legal instruments, appointing and managing Commission staff and chairing all Commission meetings and deliberations.
Mr Odinga is very much qualified and has the experience to do all this work.Africa should give him the chance
