Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has expressed disappointment at those hoping that Raila Odinga fails in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship.
Barasa, in a statement on X, criticized Kenyans and Gen Z’s wishing Odinga ill luck, urging them to be patriotic and stop their negative comments.
Barasa to Gen Zs
“To all the Gen Z’s and Kenyans wishing Tinga Raila Odinga bad luck shame on you! Be patriotic majamaa!. Too much noise on social media na hakuna kitu mnasema ata,” Barasa stated.
Odinga’s candidacy, unveiled by President William Ruto, comes amidst political shifts, including the Orange Democratic Movement members joining the government following the Gen Z protests which did not sit well with several people.
The AUC elections require a candidate to secure at least two-thirds of the votes, approximately 36 out of 54.
Odinga faces competition from candidates like Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Anil Gayan, and Richard James. Some believe he may face opposition from Francophone countries, while he could receive support from Anglophone nations.
In his speech at the launch, Odinga expressed gratitude for the support from Kenyan and Eastern African leaders.
He outlined his vision for the AUC, emphasizing a need for a more people-centred approach to address Africa’s challenges such as poverty, conflict, and unemployment.
Odinga highlighted Africa’s progress and aspirations and pledged to work towards integrating the continent and addressing its diverse needs if elected. He called for a united effort and support from all African nations to achieve this vision.
Raila Odinga’s launch
The launch event signalled the beginning of Raila Odinga’s official campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship, with elections scheduled for February 2025.
Attendees included South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu, and Uganda President Yoweri Museveni.
Also present were Rwanda’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs James Kabarebe and Burundian Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca. Notable figures included former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
