ODM Leader Raila Odinga says his journey to Africa’s top seat in Addis Ababa has began with endorsement from the leaders of the East African Community countries.
He says he is ready for the new role of making continent of Africa great.
Speaking at Marani town in Kitutu Chache North Constituency of Kisii County when he officially opened the Marani Town Aggregation and Marketing Centre Thursday, Mr. Odinga said he is confident that African governments will support his bid for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC) saying he had began seeing positive indications.
“On Monday I met Presidents Museveni (Uganda) and Ruto (Kenya) and sought their support for the bid. They both agreed to vote for me”, he said amid cheers from the crowd that had attended the event.
“Infact President Museveni said he will be the one who will propose me for the job”, he added.
He said next week he will fly to Kigali, Rwanda for a meeting with President Paul Kagame in which he will be seeking his support and that of his government.
“I have spoken to President Salva Kirr (South Sudan) and he has agreed to support me. Even Mama Suluhu (Tanzania) has said she will be supporting me”, he said.
He also disclosed that he had had a conversation with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa whom he said has promised to vote for him for the job.
“I will speak with all the leaders on the continent to seek their support. I am ready for the battle and whoever will also bid for the same position, I am ready”, he said.
He however said by going to Addis Ababa, it doesn’t mean that he was going to be away from the country. He said will be available whenever he is needed to help on matters and issues affecting Kenyans.
“I am not going anywhere. Don’t get worried my countrymen and women. I will be here with you. The flight from Addis Ababa to Nairobi is just two hours away and I shall be at your doorstep” he said.
The Governor of Kisii Mr. Simba Arati said he was in support of Hon. Odinga’s idea to go and help the continent achieve its dream of a one United continent in terms of development, economic and infrastructural growth.
“Baba, we are supporting you and urge everyone to do it with an open heart not just because they fear your presence in the country. Let everyone support your bid and we shall all be happy”, he said.
His Migori Counterpart Mr. Ochilo Ayacko said it will be an honour for the East African Region is Hon. Odinga was elected to the Africa’s top position.
“A win for Baba at the Continental level will be victory for our region (EAC) and the entire continent. He is upto to the task and he will deliver”, he said.
Deputy Party Leader of the ODM party urged Kenyans not to be worried by Mr. Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairmanship saying he will continue championing for their rights and ensure good governance and accountability for the people of Kenya.
Other leaders present included Legislators Mr. Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache-South) his Nyaribari Masaba counterpart Dr. Daniel Manduku and Mr. Nofalson Barongo (Bomachoge-Borabu).
Mr. Odinga also opened similar aggregation markets in Magena in Bomachoge-Borabu Constituency and Daraja Mbili in Kitutu Chache-South constituency.
