President William Ruto has commended former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for his dedication and tireless campaign in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.
Despite losing to Djiboutian candidate Mahmoud Youssouf Ali, Ruto acknowledged Raila’s strong efforts in rallying support across the continent.
Speaking from State House in Mombasa on Monday, February 24, 2025, Ruto highlighted Raila’s commitment, stating that he was always present and available throughout the campaign process. The president expressed his gratitude to Raila for his hard work and to the entire African continent for supporting Kenya’s bid.
“Hon@RailaOdinga rolled out a formidable and effective campaign for the position of African Union Commission chairperson across the continent. He was present and available for the busy schedules and appointments in nearly all capitals of Africa. His inspiring message of what is needed for the continent’s transformation brought our country, Eastern Africa and Africa together. We thank everyone who contributed to his campaign,” he noted
Despite the outcome, Ruto emphasized that Kenya’s efforts in the election strengthened its position in African leadership and diplomacy.
“A special mention to the entire Africa for its show of solidarity and support to Kenya and Hon Odinga. At State House, Mombasa reflected with Hon Odinga on Kenya’s just-ended bid for the African Union Commission chairperson position. We remain focused on accelerating the momentum in building a united continent with sufficient infrastructure to further intra-African trade,” Ruto added.
The president also welcomed Raila back to the country, acknowledging his dedication to the campaign and expressing his desire to work with him in advancing Kenya’s development goals. He stated that Raila’s engagement in nation-building remains crucial and that their focus now shifts to improving infrastructure, fostering intra-African trade, and ensuring prosperity for all Kenyans.
“I have supported many people in the past, but we had a fantastic candidate. He was present and did what needed to be done. Raila was available for all his appointments to different countries and to canvas his candidature,” the Head of State said.
Adding;
“It is a proud moment for us to receive you back home and to engage with you as we drive the development of our country, engage in nation-building and broaden and widen our engagement towards achieving equity, prosperity and transformation.”
Raila defends Ruto
In his speech, Raila Odinga clarified the extent of President Ruto’s support for his unsuccessful bid to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Raila stressed that his decision to vie for the position was entirely his own 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 announced to say that he was supporting my candidature,” he stated.
He went on to acknowledge Ruto’s contribution to his campaign, noting that the President provided more than just verbal support.
“He supported my candidature not just by words but by deeds and put up the machinery to help my campaign,” Raila added.
Looking ahead, Raila revealed that he would engage in consultations with his allies and supporters before making a definitive decision about his political future. He reaffirmed his dedication to serving Kenya and promised to announce his next steps soon.
“We are available for Africa but more importantly we are availed for Kenya. I’m back home here. I’m going to meet with my friends and supporters. I’m going to consult widely for the next step forward and in due process we will confirm our way forward and announce it,” he said.
