Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission’s (AUC) chairmanship ended in disappointment after losing to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and now politician and former Roots Party running mate Justina Wamae has weighed in on the reasons behind the defeat.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), on Sunday, February 16, 2025, Wamae pointed to several factors, including backlash from Gen Z, cases of abductions, and diplomatic missteps such as French President Emmanuel Macron’s intervention in the DRC crisis.

She suggested these issues tainted Kenya’s candidature, ultimately derailing Raila’s chances.

“Various Gen Z letters/social media comments, Gen Z abduction, abduction of Besigye, abduction of a Tanzanian journalist, Macron’s call over the DRC crisis, and several other reckless comments messed our candidature,” Wamae wrote.

Her remarks come amid growing debate over what went wrong in Raila’s high-profile bid, with some arguing that Kenya’s diplomatic strategy fell short in securing the support needed to clinch the influential AU post.

Messages of support

Following his loss, Raila has continued to receive messages of encouragement from various political leaders, both in Kenya and across Africa.

Among those who have publicly consoled him is Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who assured Raila that his stature remains greater than the position he sought.

In a statement shared on X, Kingi praised Raila’s efforts and framed the loss as a testament to his significance rather than a failure.

“Warmest congratulations to Raila Odinga for the spirited contest on behalf of Kenya. This isn’t a loss. It’s a confirmation that you are just too big for this seat. You remain our pride,” Kingi wrote.

He also welcomed Raila back to Kenya, echoing sentiments that his leadership remains valuable at home.

“Karibu Nyumbani Baba,” Kingi added.

His message reflects a broader sentiment among Raila’s supporters, who believe that despite the setback, he still has a crucial role to play in Kenyan politics.

Raila breaks silence

Despite the disappointment, Raila himself has maintained a positive outlook.

Speaking in Addis Ababa shortly after the election results were announced, he acknowledged the outcome and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contest.

“When you go to a contest, there can only be two outcomes—you can win or you can lose. So this is one of them,” he stated.

He also made it clear that he was not bitter about the loss, saying he remains open to serving the continent in other capacities.

“Therefore, I am not bitter; I am very happy indeed. I am still available to offer services to the continent in any other capacity.”

His remarks have been seen as a sign of maturity and statesmanship, reinforcing his long-held commitment to Pan-African leadership.

The former prime minister then also hinted that he may now go back to Kenyan politics, saying he has a lot of

responsibilities back home that he would want to focus on now that he never took the new job as he had wished.

“My plan now is to go back home. I have numerous things to do there,” he said, fuelling speculation about his next political move.

While he did not specify whether he intends to run for office again, political analysts believe his return could reshape the country’s political landscape, especially as Kenya gears up for the 2027 general elections.

Ruto accepts outcome

President William Ruto, who actively campaigned for Raila’s bid, has also accepted the election results, emphasising that Kenya will continue to engage in African affairs.

“This election was not about individuals or nations; it was about Africa’s future. That future remains bright, and together, we will continue working for a united, prosperous, and influential Africa on the global stage,” Ruto stated.