What was Raila Odinga's highest political position in Kenya and what challenges does the new AU Commission head face?

Raila Odinga's colorful political career peaked when he became Kenya's Prime Minister in 2008, following tense negotiations to end post-election violence that claimed at least 1,000 lives. While remaining a beloved figure in Kenya, his recent alliance with President William Ruto was viewed by some as betraying his decades-long advocacy for good governance. Meanwhile, Mahmoud Ali Yusuf, who defeated Odinga for the AU Commission chairmanship, now faces significant challenges across the continent. These include the increasing presence of military juntas in West Africa and ongoing violent rebellion in Eastern Congo, where Rwanda-backed rebels continue to cause instability.