Former Defence CS Eugene Wamalwa now says that the support Azimio leader Raila Odinga has received from across the political divide as he eyes the African Union Commission job confirms the maturity of Kenya’s political space.
In a statement on Tuesday, Eugene said the support has so far been remarkable.
He went on to say it has shown that when it is about one of us, the country and the region are willing to rise above political or regional differences and stand as one.
“The support Raila Odinga’s AU bid has drawn across the political divide is remarkable! It confirms our political maturity when It’s about Kenya, E. Africa or Africa, whether it’s the AU leadership or hosting of AFCON, we can rise above our partisan, regional or parochial differences,” Wamalwa said on X.
His remarks come a day after several leaders from across the political divide backed the former Prime minister’s announcement that he is willing and ready to lead the AU Commission should the call come his way.
The ruling UDA party on Saturday endorsed Azimio leader Raila Odinga to become the next chairperson of the African Union Commission.
Speaking at a press briefing, UDA secretary general Cleophas Malala said the party believes Raila can lead the continent in the desired direction.
He said Raila’s immense pool of experience will most certainly be of value to the African continent.
The SG added that the former Prime minister’s strive for democratic reforms in the country will also be reflected in the region and the continent as a whole.
“He measures up to Africa’s greatest as one of Africa’s greatest sons. Raila was at the forefront of the greatest leaders who championed the entrenchment of the tenets of democracy and the rule of law in Kenya and Africa,” Malala said.
“Today, as the continent goes into deep waters seeking emancipation from perpetual dependency on external support, a man of his stature can chart our path and save the vessel of emancipation of Africa to greater heights and the desired destination.”
Other leaders from Raila’s Azimio la Umoja coalition have also endorsed Raila, should he want to pursue the job.
