President William Ruto-led United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party has officially welcomed Raila Odinga’s bid to join African Union (AU) leadership.
The party held a press conference on the same at their headquarters in Nairobi today (Saturday, February 17, 2024).
Secretary General Cleophas Malala announced that the Ruto-led party would fully support Odinga’s bid to succeed Moussa Faki as the AU Chair.
“Odinga will immensely contribute to African statesmanship as a veteran politician. He measures up to African greatest politicians,” he added.
Malala further called on Kenyans to also rally behind the Azimio coalition leader as he goes for the continental post.
“UDA party support his bid and Kenyans should come together and support him. His victory will come as win to not only to Kenyans but east Africa.”
National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro declared that UDA politicians would convene for a meeting to discuss the matter.
Osoro said the parliamentary group including Members of Parliament and senators will take place on Sunday, February 18 ahead of the cabinet retreat.
“We support this initiative wholeheartedly. As Kenya kwanza, we have decided to put aside all our differences to support him following his experience in international matters.
“When a Kenyan leads, it will put our flag high, and this calls for support from all Kenyans from both political Spectra,” he added.
Raila Odinga made the announcement earlier this week from his Karen home. He stated that the decision was arrived at after numerous consultations.
Former President of Nigeria Olusegun Obasanjo endorsed Odinga for the plum position, acknowledging that he was vastly experienced in the political space.
“People who have held position of head of government either as President or PM are most suitable for this job,” he added.
Obasanjo noted that with the support of East African heads of states, the former Prime Minister stood a good chance of earning the seat.
“I have no doubt that my friend who is standing next to me (Hon. Odinga) is the right person to take over the mantle. If the EAC region backs him, I believe the rest of the continent will support him,” he added.
