Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has clarified the nature of President William Ruto’s support for his failed bid to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).

Speaking at State House Mombasa on Monday, February 24, 2025, Raila emphasized that his decision to run for the AUC chair was independent and not influenced by Ruto.

“I want to thank my brother William Ruto, who stood by me. He never asked me to run for the AUC seat. I announced myself that I was going to run for the position of chair of AUC, and he only came after I made an announcement to say that he was supporting my candidature,” Raila stated.

He further acknowledged Ruto’s role in his campaign, noting that the President provided both verbal and tangible assistance.

“He supported my candidature not just by words but by deeds and put up the machinery to help my campaign,” Raila added.

Financial support

Raila further dismissed reports that the government spent Ksh13 billion to bankroll his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship bid.

“I have seen billions being quoted, someone is talking about Ksh13 billion spent on Raila’s campaigns. I do not know which world those guys live in or whether they know what a billion means. A billion to do what?” Raila wondered.

The former Prime Minister explained that the government only facilitated his transportation and that he did not live extravagantly during the campaign period.

Raila mentioned that some countries offered him accommodation and meals during his visits.

“The money that was spent was the money that was necessary just to hire transport to travel around and we were not living luxuriously. We were eating whatever was provided to us,” Raila stated.

“Other countries were very generous, they provided accommodation and so on. The government gave what was required and the Minister of Foreign Affairs was available 24-7,” he added.

Raila’s future

Regarding his political future, Raila expressed his readiness to serve both continental and national interests, promising to announce his next steps after extensive consultation.

“I am available to help the continent of Africa but more importantly, I am also available for Kenya. I will consult widely and in due course announce the way forward shortly. Watch this space, I will be talking again,” Raila stated.