‘He cannot get there without support of govt’ – Wetang’ula on Raila’s bid for AU job
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has backed up opposition leader Raila Odinga's aspiration for the top position at the African Union (AU).
Odinga, who has garnered endorsements from various leaders, including Kenya Kwanza leaders, is poised to take up the role of chairperson of the AU Commission, with the term of the current chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat, drawing to a close.
Addressing congregants at St. Charles Lwanga Kapchepkoro Catholic Church in Sotik Constituency, Bomet County, Wetang'ula noted the need for Raila to transition to a different role, noting his longstanding role in keeping governments in check as the opposition leader.
He also highlighted President William Ruto's support for the Azimio la Umoja - One Kenya coalition leader's bid.
"He has put every government on its toes all his life, sasa anataka kuenda Addis Ababa and he cannot get there without the blessing, support and sponsorship from the government of the Republic of Kenya," he asserted.
Adding;
"Na rais Ruto amesema kama mwenzetu anataka hiyo kazi, si ya Raila, ni ya nchi ya Kenya na akienda huko anaenda kufanyia wananchi wa Kenya. So acha haende Addis Ababa afanye kazi uko, hii ya hapa sisi tuendeshe."
On Friday, February 23 Defence CS Aden Duale announced the government's full support for Raila Odinga's AU candidacy emphasizing the need for East Africa to hold the position.
“We have decided in unison that we support our fellow Kenyan (Raila) who is overqualified for the job,” Duale said.
Duale praised Raila as a strong national leader.
He also acknowledged President Ruto's leadership qualities, expressing confidence in his support for Raila's candidacy.
"President William Ruto is not a petty leader. He is a very good National leader. And for that reason, he will lead from the front in ensuring that Raila clinches the seat."
Raila ready for AU job
Raila announced his interest in the job on February 15, 2024.
He said that after extensive consultation with his associates, including former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who endorsed his candidacy, he felt prepared to serve the continent.
“The general Olusegun Obasanjo has said he is one of my closest friends in the continent and has intimated that should there be an interest I will be keen to serve the continent of Africa," Raila said.
The opposition leader also expressed his willingness to contribute to Africa's progress whenever required, citing his belief that the continent deserves more effective leadership.
“I am ready and offer myself to be of service to this African content when called upon. I believe that Africa is playing in a league that it should not play in and that it deserves better," Raila stated.
Drawing on his experience as a high representative within the AU, Odinga asserted his suitability for the role.
“I have served in the AU in the capacity of high representative, it gave me a good advantage to be able to learn about every African country and the comparative advantages and I believe that by walking together with the countries we can make Africa great,” Raila declared.
