Nandi Senator Samson Cherargey has accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of supporting former Tanzania Jakaya Kikwete for the AU top job instead of supporting Raila Odinga’s bid.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on Tuesday February 20, 2024, Cherargey stated that it was wrong for Uhuru Kenyatta to support Kikwete instead of supporting Raila for the AU chairperson job.
“I know Uhuru is not happy with Raila getting the AU job, that is why he is funding Jakaya Kikwete to frustrate Raila’s effort in getting the job,” said Cherargey.
The Nandi Senator added that the Kenya Kwanza government is committed to ensuring the ODM party leader gets the job as chairperson for AU.
READ ALSO: I’m ready to serve as chairperson of African Union, says Raila Odinga
“The government will use its own resources to Lobby for AU position so Raila Odinga should put his loyalty to the government,” Cherargey stated.
Meanwhile, AU elections are scheduled to take place in early 2025 to replace the incumbent, Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad and other officials.
Raila has got the support of opposition leaders and the Kenya Kwanza government in his bid for the AU job.
For instance, Foreign Affairs Ministry Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei had disclosed that President William Ruto’s government will facilitate Raila’s candidature for the AU job.
READ ALSO: Govt ready to facilitate Raila Odinga’s candidature for AU top job says PS Korir
“Facilitating the candidature of qualified Kenyans to regional and international organizations is one of the mandates of the Foreign Affairs Ministry. We are on standby to support this quest of a well deserving national,” stated Ministry of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei.
This was after the ODM party leader declared his interest in the AU Chairperson role on February 15, 2024.
“I have been consulting widely. I think I am ready to serve the continent of Africa. Africa deserves better,” said Raila during a press briefing at his Karen home in Nairobi.
READ ALSO: Ruto’s UDA Party offers support for Raila Odinga’s AU bid
