Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has thanked the government of Kenya for supporting his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.
In an address at Mombasa State House, Odinga said President William Ruto’s did not only support his candidature by words, but also by actions.
“He put up the machinery to campaign for me,” Odinga said.
The Azimio la Umoja leader expressed gratitude on his return home after a loss to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf in the February 15, 2025 polls held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Odinga further assured that all is not lost as he is back home to chart a new path with his allies.
“We are available to help the continent of Africa, but most importantly we are also available for Kenya. I am back home, I am going to meet my friends… my supporters, and I am going to consult widely. In due course we are going to announce a way forward. I just want to say watch this space I will be talking again,” remarked Odinga.
The former Prime Minister termed his defeat at AUC as a ‘success’ for Kenya.
In addition, Odinga disputed claims that the government spent nearly Ksh. 13 billion to fund his campaign.
“The money that was spent was necessary to hire transport. We were not living luxuriously we ate what we were given whenever we went. Many African countries were very generous they gave us accommodation,” he said while thanking the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for running his campaign.
He further acknowledged that he congratulated his opponents Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar) and Mahmoud – who emerged winner after 7 rounds of voting by representatives from member states.
