Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji has claimed that President William Ruto is more eager for Raila Odinga to win the African Union Chairmanship than Raila himself.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Friday, February 14, Mukunji explained that Raila remains a major political threat to Ruto in the next general election.
He suggested that if Raila secures the AU position, it would ease political pressure on Ruto, as he would no longer have to compete against a formidable opponent in the 2027 presidential race.
“I would say that President Ruto seems more desperate for Raila to win this seat than Raila himself. This is largely because of local politics and the fact that Raila remains a serious contender for the 2027 elections,” Mukunji stated.
Despite acknowledging Raila as a political rival to Ruto, the UDA legislator expressed his support for the former Prime Minister’s bid for the AU role.
He praised Raila’s leadership skills, saying that his strategic approach to politics and deep understanding of African history make him well-suited for the position.
“Raila Odinga is a man who knows history inside and out. He understands Africa and always knows the right words to say at the right time. There is no doubt that he would represent Africa positively,” Mukunji remarked.
“I have read about his vision for Africa, and I must say it is quite impressive,” he added.
AU Elections and Raila’s Competitors
With the African Union Commission (AUC) elections fast approaching, 55 Heads of State from AU member nations, including President William Ruto, have gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the polls.
Raila Odinga is competing against two other candidates for the AU Chairmanship: Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Yousouff (MAY) and Madagascar’s Richard J. Randriamandrato. If Raila wins, he will take charge of the AU Commission’s administration and finances while leading efforts to unite and strengthen the continent.
Local Leaders Express Confidence in Raila’s Candidacy
Several Kenyan politicians, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, have voiced their support for Raila’s bid.
In a statement on Friday morning, Gachagua took to his X account to express optimism about Raila’s chances. He emphasized that Raila has a strong global outlook and has always been dedicated to advocating for Africa’s interests.
“As a continent, we need a leader like Raila Odinga who can bridge the gap between Anglophone and Francophone Africa and help shape the future of our continent.
His victory in Addis Ababa would reinforce his long-standing commitment to Pan-Africanism,” Gachagua stated.
With the elections set to take place soon, all eyes are on Addis Ababa to see if Raila will emerge victorious in his quest for Africa’s top leadership position.
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