‘His dedication to represent Kenya on the continental stage is commendable’ – Waiguru on Raila’s AUC loss
Kirinyaga governor Anne Waiguru has joined other national leaders in commending Raila Odinga over his performance at the African Union Chairmanship (AUC) election held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Saturday, February 15, 2025.
In her statement shared via her official X account, Waiguru applauded Raila’s dedication to representing Kenya on the continental stage, despite him not winning the election.
She also commended his campaign team for its immense efforts in ensuring he represents Kenya in the contest.
We applaud the strong campaign by @RailaOdinga and the entire Kenya team led by HE @WilliamsRuto for the @_AfricanUnion Commission Chairmanship. Though we didn’t win, @RailaOdinga’s dedication to representing Kenya on the continental stage is commendable. Welcome home baba,” she wrote.
Raila lost to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf who was declared winner after garnering the required 33 votes in the last round of the elections.
With Mahmoud’s win in the election, Raila’s loss has sparked mixed reactions with a section of Nyeri residents celebrating his loss.
His, supporters on other hand, expressed disappointment by advocating for Ruto’s removal from office.
Raila’s response
On his part, Odinga accepted the outcome and reaffirmed his availability of serving the continent in other capacities.
“When you go to a contest, there can only be two outcomes—you can win or you can lose. So this is one of them,” Raila said.
“Therefore, I am not bitter; I am very happy indeed. I am still available to offer services to the continent in any other capacity,” he added.
President William Ruto, in a statement issued via his various social media accounts, expressed gratitude to African leaders for considering Raila‘s vision for the continental body.
“While the outcome of this election did not favor Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for giving him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation,” Ruto said.
