Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has welcomed the return of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to the local scene following his loss in the fiercely contested African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson race, saying the country needs him now more than ever.

Kenya, Gachagua said, still has “unfinished business” with Raila, suggesting that his leadership is crucial for addressing Kenya’s governance challenges.

“Africa needed you most, but God, in His own wisdom, found that Kenya, your motherland, and indeed, we Kenyans, your beloved brothers and sisters, have unfinished business with you as their coveted son as we unshackle our country from recklessness,” Gachagua said.

In a veiled jab at Raila’s newfound alliance with President William Ruto, Gachagua said Raila’s loss should not be seen as a defeat but as an opportunity for him to continue shaping the nation’s governance structure.

Deep optimism

The former DP, a fierce critic of Raila, noted that while the majority had their way, Raila’s strong showing reflected the deep optimism and pride Kenyans feel in their leader.

He said Raila’s candidacy symbolised the hope and progress Kenya represents in Africa and the global stage.

In the AUC contest, Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emerged victorious, securing the required two-thirds majority with 33 votes in the seventh round of voting.

Raila, who led in the early rounds, was eliminated in the sixth after garnering 22 votes against Youssouf’s 26, with one abstention.

Following Saturday’s vote, Raila conceded defeat and congratulated Youssouf, while pressing the need to strengthen democratic values across Africa.

Meanwhile,  Gachagua has urged his allies de-whipped from various Senate committees to hold the government accountable for stalled projects, especially in their regions.

Speaking in Ol Kalou on Saturday, Gachagua expressed sympathy with his political allies following their removal from key committees.

He encouraged them not to worry, assuring them that they are now free to focus on serving the people.

“Don’t worry even when you have been denied those chances. As long as the people are happy with you, you have no problem,” Gachagua said.