The People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has blamed President William Ruto for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s failure in the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship elections.

Speaking during an interview on radio 47 on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Karua said President Ruto’s ‘bad reputation’ is to blame for Raila’s loss, since he had overwhelming support across Africa.

“Raila had significant support, but the one who accompanied him, President Ruto, has a bad reputation across Africa. 

“Ruto’s involvement in internal conflicts in other countries played a part,” said Karua.

Despite the loss, Ruto praised Raila’s AUC candidacy, describing him as a fantastic candidate for the continent. 

However, Raila dismissed claims that the Kenya Kwanza government spent Ksh13 billion on his AUC campaigns.

“I have seen somebody talking about Ksh13 billion. I don’t know which world they live in,” Raila said, clarifying that the government only provided transport.

Gen Z’s role in governance

At the same time, Martha Karua emphasized the importance of Gen Z in shaping Kenya’s political future.

She stated that any strategy excluding young people is bound to fail, as they make up the majority of the population.

“Any plan that does not involve Gen Z will not reach its full potential because they are the majority in our country and across Africa. They are the leaders of today and tomorrow,” Karua said.

She urged political leaders to engage young people in governance, acknowledging their role in demanding accountability.

Public participation in leadership

Karua stressed that leadership is not a personal entitlement but a responsibility given by the people, which can be withdrawn if the public is dissatisfied.

“Citizens should be involved in governance, and their opinions must be respected. If they say they do not want you, as a leader, you must respect that. Leadership is not a title deed, it is an honor given for a limited time,” she said.

No rift with Rigathi Gachagua

Karua dismissed speculation about a political feud with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying their past exchanges were purely political.

“There was nothing personal between me and Rigathi Gachagua. It was just political differences and exchanging words. So, there is no reason why we cannot work together to serve Kenyans,” she said.

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