Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

- Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has reacted to reports of him dropping out of the highly anticipated African Union Commission chairperson elections.

Days before the election, reports in Arabic outlets indicated Youssouf had dropped out of the race in favour of Kenya's candidate, Raila Odinga.

The reports emerged after a small meeting between Yousouf and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

However, in a statement on Wednesday, February 12, Youssouf dismissed the media reports, insisting that he was still in the race.

“Incorrect news about my withdrawal from the race to assume the position of chairperson of the African Union Commission was reported in some Arab media outlets; I confirm here that I am still in the competition,” Youssouf said.

The Djibouti candidate is considered to be the biggest threat to the former prime minister's chance of winning the coveted seat.

Earlier, political analyst and lawyer Javas Bigambo weighed in on the situation and discussed the potential implications for Mahmoud if he decided to step down.

In an exclusive interview with , Bigambo said that the situation could either be viewed as a campaign strategy by Raila's team or as an attempt by a section of Kenyans to portray Raila as leading the race.

The expert further said that Mahmoud stepping down from the race just weeks before the elections could tarnish his reputation as a leader on the continental stage.

He stated that the decision to step down from the race is one that only Mahamoud and his country can make, and it can only be confirmed by him.

Bigambo said that Mahmoud stepping down could work in Raila's favour, potentially allowing him to win unopposed.

When asked about his comment on Raila winning unopposed, despite Madagascar's candidate Richard Randriamandrato still being in the race, Bigambo explained further.

He stated that, in his view, Madagascar's candidate lacks the political strength to defeat Raila.

In a separate development, Siaya senator Oburu Odinga remains optimistic that his brother, Raila will win the election.

Oburu said Raila's outreach to continental leaders had been well received.

He said Raila assured him that everything was fine. Oburu added that Raila had not encountered a negative response while campaigning in various African countries.

He asserted that the positive reception that Raila has been receiving is a clear sign that he is going to clinch the highly contested AUC seat.

Source: TUKO.co.ke