Dj Vnyash
Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa is facing criticism for sharing a poll that falsely claimed Raila Odinga was leading in the race for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship. The poll, which Barasa posted on X, suggested that Raila had 80% support, followed by Mohamoud Ali from Djibouti with 8%, and Richard Randrimandrato with 2%, while 10% of voters were undecided.
The MP’s caption read, “Raila Odinga takes the early lead! The AUC CHAIRMANSHIP seat is Ours for keeps!” The post gained significant attention on social media.
However, Amani Africa, the organization allegedly behind the poll, denied conducting it. On December 12, they condemned Barasa’s actions as irresponsible, labeling the use of their name and logo as disinformation and criminal. They demanded the immediate withdrawal of their logo from the poster.
This incident comes ahead of a crucial debate, Mjadala Afrika, scheduled for December 13, where Raila Odinga, Mahmoud Ali of Djibouti, and Richard Randrimandrato of Madagascar will discuss their candidacies for the AUC chairmanship. The debate is a key event in the race, which will culminate in the election of a new AUC Chairperson in February 2025, as the current term of Moussa Faki Mahamat ends.
Silverio Omari
