Rédaction Africa Links 24 with DAVIS AYEGA
Published on 2024-02-28 18:10:50
Raila Odinga, the leader of Azimio, has reiterated that his aspiration to become the fifth African Union (AU) Commission chairperson will not suppress the opposition’s voice. He made this declaration during a conference in Homa Bay, Kenya, emphasizing that he will be easily accessible, just a two-hour flight away from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU headquarters is located.
Despite concerns about potential compromises within the opposition due to his alliance with President Ruto, Raila assured delegates that the opposition will remain strong and unwavering. He also received assurance from Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka that there will be no leadership vacuum within the Azimio coalition if he secures the AU job.
As Raila’s potential shift to the AU Commission looms, discussions on succession within the ODM party have intensified. Former Governors Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya are among the individuals speculated to be eyeing leadership roles within the opposition. Kalonzo urged Raila to focus on campaigning for the AU Commission post and acknowledged that anti-government campaigns would need to be put on hold to secure President Ruto’s support.
Despite the succession discussions within ODM, Kalonzo emphasized the importance of Raila’s candidacy for the AU position and urged him to prioritize it over domestic political matters. This strategic move aligns with the need to secure crucial support from key stakeholders in the African Union.
The potential transition of leadership within the opposition in Kenya is a topic of significant interest and speculation, with various leaders positioning themselves for potential succession. While Raila’s candidacy for the AU Commission post has garnered support, the implications of his potential departure from Kenya’s domestic political landscape are being closely monitored.
In conclusion, Raila Odinga’s bid for the AU Commission chairmanship has sparked discussions and speculation within the Kenyan political landscape. His reassurances about maintaining the opposition’s voice and support from key political figures indicate a strategic approach to securing the AU position. As the succession discussions within the ODM party continue to evolve, the outcome of Raila’s candidacy for the AU Commission post will have far-reaching implications for Kenya’s opposition movement.
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