Members of the National Assembly have commended former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC), commending him for his courage and Pan-African ideals.
Led by the Speaker Moses Masika Wetang’ula, the House also congratulated Mahamoud Ali Youssouf on his election as AUC Chairperson.
“This House records its congratulations to H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf on his election as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on Saturday, 15th February 2025,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.
At the same time Majority Leader, Kimani Ichung’wah dismissed bribery allegations and claims that the endorsement was politically motivated.
“President Ruto did not choose to support Raila Odinga because he was his competitor in the last elections or because they have served in ODM together. He chose to support Hon. Odinga as a deserving Kenyan and African statesman,” Ichung’wah stated.
While addressing the House, Ichung’wa recognized the Government of Kenya, led by President Ruto, for the Pan-African campaign in support of the Raila Odinga candidacy
“The Government’s efforts have been reinforced by Kenya’s commitment to regional and continental integration and cooperation and guided by Kenya’s Foreign Policy,” he added.
Members commended the remarkable achievement by Raila for emerging the runner-up in the election of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on Saturday, 15th February 2025.
Minority Leader, Junet Mohamed hailed Hon. Odinga’s courage, stating, “It requires a lot of determination to step out and say, ‘I want to represent my country at a very high level in the African Union.”
Junet also applauded Odinga’s effort, calling his campaign a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to African leadership.
Jared Okelo (Nyando) said, “The President went beyond the call of duty, even launching Raila’s candidature at State House despite their past political battles. History will judge President Ruto favourably for this.”
Legislators also called for unity when a Kenyan vies for international positions. “I call upon all Kenyans that when these positions do arise and we have a Kenyan candidate, that candidate is not an individual candidate but is a national candidate. It is upon us to support them throughout,” Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei urged.
Peter Kaluma (Homa Bay Town) echoed similar sentiments, urging leaders and citizens to use the AU contest as a lesson in national unity.
“I am requesting Hon. Raila and President Ruto that this AUC contest is something we need to build on—to unite this country and create a prosperous, equitable, and fair nation where all of us are proud to be Kenyan,” he said.
On his part, Farah Maalim (Daadab) called for mutual respect among leaders, stating, “Hon. Raila Odinga is a leader of immense repute, and he deserves respect. The nature of democracy is diversity of opinion.”
