Cracks Emerge in UDA Over Support for Raila’s AU Bid
President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has split over Raila Odinga’s candidature for African Union Commission Chairperson.
Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa questioned how the decision to front Raila was reached, implying that retired President Uhuru Kenyatta should have been considered instead.
While addressing the public at the burial service of former DIG King’ori Mwangi on Saturday at his home in Tetu, Nyeri County, the Senator stated that with Uhuru, who is from the same region, available, there was no need to go with Raila.
“I have heard that the country is supporting Raila Odinga and then I asked myself you want us to choose this person (Raila) when our Uhuru is here?” He posed.
The remarks came on the same day that the UDA praised the former Prime Minister and announced its support for his candidature.
“We welcome Raila’s decision to take up the AU position…Raila is an African luminary…He deserves the position based on his contribution to the continent, and will immensely contribute to African unity.
“Raila has proved himself as a true Pan-Africanist. When Africa was going through dictatorship, Raila was there to condemn it…he adds up to Africa’s great sons, and played a big role in African democracy.” UDA said in a statemenet issued by its Secretary General Cleophas Malala.
He explained that his decision to support Raila was motivated by patriotism rather than politics.
“UDA party is mindful of the need to come together as a country to support our own. Our party supporters are therefore asked to support Raila…This is not a political statement, it is a patriotic statement.” Malala stated.
The UDA has decided to support Odinga for the position currently held by Chad’s Moussa Faki Mahamat.
Demands for Raila to reciprocate by supporting Ruto’s 2027 bid
Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana challenged Raila to reciprocate by supporting President William Ruto’s reelection in 2027.
“In 2007, William Ruto supported you in your presidential bid, and now, 17 years later, in 2024, Ruto is instrumental in helping you secure the AU position. When the time comes in 2027, we urge you to also extend your support to President Ruto’s reelection,” Mungatana said in Hola Town.
Odinga, whose political career spans several decades, is no stranger to leadership roles in Kenya and on the international stage, and he revealed that he has conducted extensive consultations before deciding to serve the continent.
In Other News: Governors Hold Crisis Meeting Amid Escalating Wars With National Govt After Snubbing DP’s Invitation
Cracks Emerge in UDA Over Support for Raila’s AU Bid
