UDA Surprise: Throws Support Behind Raila for AU Chair, Fuels Speculation on Uhuru’s Ambitions
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has officially declared its backing for the candidacy of opposition leader Raila Odinga for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission.
During a press briefing on Saturday, Cleophas Malala, the Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), commended the leader of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party, referring to him as a genuine advocate for Pan-Africanism.
Malala emphasized that the decision of President William Ruto’s party to support Mr. Odinga’s candidacy was not a political choice but rather a patriotic one. The intention behind this decision was to enhance the country’s reputation and standing on the continental stage.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Malala added: “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.”
The UDA SG proceeded to respond to speculations suggesting that former President Uhuru Kenyatta is also vying for the identical position as Mr. Odinga.
“Kama Uhuru Kenyatta atataka pia AU slot, itakuwa ni kama mchuano wa Omanyala na Kipchoge…lakini sasa hivi tunajua ni Raila Odinga ametangaza,” he noted.
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The support from the ruling party follows the endorsement of Mr. Odinga’s candidacy by his Azimio coalition, which conveyed assurance and optimism in affirming that the former Prime Minister is well-suited for the position.
The opposing party highlighted Mr. Odinga’s steadfast dedication to upholding the rule of law, democracy, and the overall well-being of the populace as the key foundations of his candidacy.
“As Azimio coalition, we welcome and congratulate our party leader for the bold step of putting his name forward for consideration of this most important role to the African continent and its people. We fully support his decision and we shall back his candidature to our fullest capacity,” the party said in a statement on Friday.
“From the onset, Mr. Odinga has played a crucial and selfless role in the democratization of our nation. His sacrifices towards achieving socio-economic development, inclusivity, and stability of our Republic are well documented. He has always put Kenya first. These are qualities that we believe are needed for the next Chairperson of the AU Commission.”
Mr. Odinga, while declaring his interest in the AU Commission position on Thursday, said he had engaged in wide consultations before ultimately resolving to throw his hat in the ring.
“Should the leadership of Africa want my services I am ready and offer myself to be of service to this continent. I’m ready yes to go for the chairmanship of the African Union,” he said during a press conference flanked by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo who also supported his bid.
UDA Surprise: Throws Support Behind Raila for AU Chair, Fuels Speculation on Uhuru’s Ambitions