Mudavadi rallies Africa behind Raila for AUC top post
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi has affirmed that Kenya is fully backing former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as the best candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Alego Usonga Affordable Housing units and market stalls in Siaya County on August 30, Mudavadi emphasized that Raila Odinga is Kenya’s finest, poised to lead Africa towards unity, development, and peace.
“We are united as one people to make sure the best of Kenya gets to the African Union. Raila is the best fit for the position,” declared Mudavadi. He told Kenyans to shun tribal politics, stressing that it is time for a new chapter in Kenya’s political landscape.
President William ruto last week launched Azimio leader candidature for the AUC Chairmanship position for the election contest set for February 2025. His candidacy has garnered widespread support from various quarters, including leaders from the Nyanza region, who commended President William Ruto for backing Raila’s bid.
The event in Siaya also celebrated the recent appointments of Opiyo Wandayi as Cabinet Secretary for Petroleum and Energy and John Mbadi to key government positions. These appointments further demonstrate President Ruto’s commitment to inclusivity and representation in his administration.
Nyanza leaders, led by Siaya Governor James Orengo, expressed their gratitude to President Ruto for recognizing the region’s leadership by appointing Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi.
Governor Orengo stated, “Kenya is in a better place with Opiyo Wandayi as a Cabinet Secretary in President William Ruto’s government.” He added that the endorsement of Raila Odinga for the AUC Chairmanship is a strategic move that will benefit not just Kenya but the entire African continent.
Opiyo Wandayi, the immediate former MP for Ugunja, used the occasion to thank President Ruto for the opportunity to serve in his government.
“I am grateful to the President for giving me a chance to work with him in the governance of our country,” said Wandayi, acknowledging the trust and confidence placed in him.
Mudavadi highlighted the importance of the partnership between Raila Odinga and President Ruto, noting that it is crucial for Kenya’s future.
“The partnership between Raila Odinga and President William Ruto is a relationship we need to take seriously and thank God that this partnership has materialized. It is so important. And it is through this partnership, with the support of President Ruto, that Raila Odinga will become the Chairperson of the African Union Commission.”
“We need him there, not for anything personal, but because Africa needs a Baba. Africa needs stability. We fully endorse him in this. We are one, we are together, and we must work in unity as a nation,” Mudavadi added.
The event was attended by several Governors, including Kisii Governor Simba Arati, Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, and Senator Siaya Oburu Odinga.
Numerous other local and national leaders were also present, further emphasizing the broad support for Raila Odinga’s AUC candidacy and the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary, Opiyo Wandayi.
President William Ruto also took the opportunity to visit Mageka, where he oversaw the last-mile electricity connectivity project, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and development in the region.
The commissioning of the Alego Usonga Affordable Housing units and market stalls aligns with the national agenda of promoting affordable housing across Kenya, a key pillar of President Ruto’s administration.
President Ruto hinted at the possibility of further collaboration with the opposition beyond the 2027 elections, emphasizing that “we are one team.”
He praised Raila Odinga’s understanding of what is good for Kenya, stating that the decision Raila made was right for the country. This statement reinforced the unity and cooperative spirit that has characterized the current administration’s approach to governance.
