Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently shared a heartfelt message to Raila Odinga after his loss in the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship race.
In a post on social media Sunday, Gachagua praised Odinga for his determined effort in the tough race that took place on Saturday, February 15.
He commended Odinga for showing remarkable energy, resilience, and the strength of the “Lion of Africa,” as he proudly represented Kenya in the fierce competition for the AUC seat.
“You fought bravely, Baba, Raila Odinga. Your energy and resilience truly shone as you carried the Kenyan flag high in the battle for the AUC chairmanship,” Gachagua wrote.
“Though you didn’t win, you came a credible second, and the spirit of Africa and Kenya lives on. Your efforts represent the optimism and hope of our nation and the continent as a whole.”
In an unusual gesture of support for the former Prime Minister, Gachagua emphasized that Odinga’s defeat should not diminish his ability to lead. He acknowledged that despite losing this race, Odinga’s journey was far from over and he would continue to play a vital role in Kenyan politics.
Gachagua further remarked that while Africa needed Odinga for the AUC role, God had other plans. He believed that Kenya, Odinga’s homeland, still had unfinished business with him, as he could help guide the country toward better leadership and away from past missteps.
“The African Union may have been in need of you, but the Kenyan people, your brothers and sisters, still have unfinished business with you as our esteemed son,” Gachagua stated. “Kenya needs you to help us move away from recklessness and build a stronger nation.
This loss doesn’t take away from your incredible leadership abilities. It only strengthens your resolve to fix our country. Welcome back, Raila Odinga, with your head held high. You made us proud. There’s no place like home.”
Odinga was eliminated in the sixth round of voting, and Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emerged as the winner of the AUC Chairmanship race.
In the wake of the loss, Kenyans had mixed reactions. Some celebrated the outcome, while others, particularly allies of President William Ruto, expressed frustration with the result.
Although Odinga swiftly accepted his defeat, some Kenyan lawmakers proposed that the country consider withdrawing from the African Union.
Homabay Member of Parliament Peter Opondo Kaluma suggested petitioning for the East African Community to leave the AU, while Narok Senator Ledama Olekina voiced similar concerns, even suggesting dividing the AU into two regions.
Gachagua’s message of solidarity with Odinga is significant given that, in recent times, Gachagua has aligned himself with the opposition.
This came after Odinga’s shift to support President Ruto in the campaign for the AUC chairmanship.
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