Raila Odinga’s race for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship has ignited a heated debate among Kenyan politicians and analysts, with varying opinions on Raila Odinga’s candidacy.
During an interview with Citizen TV on Thursday morning, section of panelists comprising of elected leaders,aalysts expressed different opinion on the bid.
Speaking, Senator Godfrey Osotsi expressed strong support for Raila Odinga, asserting that his extensive networks across Africa, beyond the Kenyan government, position him as a strong contender for the AUC role.
“Raila will win the AUC position. He has his own networks in Africa, even away from the Kenyan government. We should all support him because if he wins, it is Kenya winning,” Osotsi declared.
However, Senator Dan Maanzo offered a contrasting perspective, questioning the government’s strategy in supporting Odinga’s bid.
“If Kenya wanted Raila to get the AUC job, President Ruto would be in Western Africa to garner support and not in Nyanza,” Maanzo pointed out, suggesting that the President’s efforts might be misdirected.
He also raised concerns about the political implications of the bid, emphasizing that while there is well-wishing for Odinga’s success, it is premature to assume victory.
“We are all wishing Raila Odinga well in the AUC bid but I find it we are counting our chickens before they hatch. President Ruto has quickly rushed to Nyanza but will be in a lot of trouble if Raila doesn’t get the bid. The money he (President Ruto) is using to run around should be reallocated to development,” Maanzo added.
Adding to the debate, Ekuru Aukot, Party Leader of Thirdway Alliance, criticized the internal dynamics surrounding Odinga’s candidacy.
“The people around Raila Odinga are lying to him about the AUC position. The position is not about personality but about qualifications. Even Ruto’s image globally has a negative effect on him (Raila),” Aukot remarked, implying that Odinga’s supporters may be misleading him about his chances.
Read also:Obasanjo Exudes Confidence With Raila’s AUC Candidature
Political analyst Edwin Mwangi during interview with Tukio has said that the divergent views highlight the complex landscape of Kenya’s diplomatic efforts and the high stakes involved in the AUC election.
He underscore the need for strategic planning and realistic expectations noting that if Raila Odinga win the seat,Kenya will highly benefit interm of visibility in the African eye.
“We should support Odinga’s bid and president Ruto should start contacting his friends in the West Africa Countries to ensure that Kenya got the seat,” he said.
