NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 25 — National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has endorsed ODM leader Raila Odinga’s quest for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission hoping for his exit from national politics.
Wetangula has advised Odinga to align with President William Ruto’s administration emphasizing the government backing will determine the former premier’s success in the contest.
The Ford Kenya Leader pointed out that the Azimio Leader will contest for the AUC leadership post as Kenya’s candidate and not to fulfil his political ambitions.
“He now wants to go to Addis Ababa and he cant go there without the blessing and support of the government. The President has said the job doesn’t belong to Raila but the Republic of Kenya,” Wetangula said.
Speaking in Bomet County on Sunday, Wetangula said it was time for Odinga, who has vied unsuccessfully for the presidency five times, to exit the political stage.
“What he has done on the local scene is enough, even Shakespeare sent the world is a stage, you come play your part, you leave and others enter scene. Let him go to Addis Ababa,” he noted.
Govt endorsement
Odinga officially announced his candidacy for the AU post on February 19 highlighting his extensive consultations with allies before making the decision.
“I am inclined to accept the challenge and I am ready and I offer myself to be of service. I have asked my friend Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo to continue to be a good ambassador and talk to other people,” he said then.
The Kenyan government has promised to back Odinga’s bid.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura described it as a defining moment for the nation and urged all leaders to put aside their political differences and rally behind Odinga.
While urging Kenyans not to read to much in the government’s actions, Mwaura described the opposition leader as a statesman who would take Kenya and the continent to greater heights.
The AUC Chairperson position will become vacant in 2026 with the exit of Chad’s Moussa Faki who has served for two terms.
The chairperson serves as the chief executive officer and legal representative of the AU, overseeing administrative and financial matters, promoting the AU’s objectives, and engaging with stakeholders.
AU Heads of State and Government will pick the new Chairperson during the 2025 Summit.
