ODM Party leader Raila Odinga has reaffirmed his commitment to being available for Kenyans as needed amid his pursuit of the African Union Chairmanship post.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, Odinga emphasized that his candidacy for the AUC top position wouldn’t distance him from his obligations to the Kenyan people.
“I am not going away. Addis Ababa is only two hours away from Nairobi. I am available; whenever I am called, I will answer. I am ready to work with you people,” he stated.
Odinga, who recently engaged in discussions with President William Ruto alongside Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, expressed his dedication to assisting Kenyans upon request. The tripartite meeting, held in Uganda, centered on Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairmanship.
Photographs shared by Odinga and Ruto depicted them attending to cattle at Museveni’s residence in Kisozi while engaging in discussions.
Reflecting on the meeting, Odinga highlighted discussions regarding the oil dispute between Kenya and Uganda. He disclosed seeking support from Ruto and Museveni during the talks.
“After we deliberated on my candidacy, they addressed the oil issue. I solicited their support, and both agreed to back me. President Museveni pledged to nominate me for the AUC chairmanship, to which I expressed gratitude,” Odinga remarked.
Additionally, Odinga revealed his ongoing efforts to garner support for his AUC chairmanship bid, emphasizing that such endeavors should not suggest a detachment from his Kenyan responsibilities.
Responding to concerns, Odinga clarified that his impromptu meeting with President Ruto in Uganda was unplanned. He clarified his visit to Uganda aimed at securing Museveni’s endorsement for his AUC chairmanship bid. The encounter with Ruto occurred while discussing the bilateral oil issues between the two nations.
“I have been engaging with various heads of state seeking support. I met with some in Namibia and later approached the President of Uganda to seek his endorsement. It was during this visit that I encountered Ruto, who was there to address oil-related matters,” Odinga elaborated.
Concluding, the former Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to serving Kenya while actively pursuing his aspirations for the AUC chairmanship.
