Kindiki urges Ruto and Raila to keep their friendship strong despite AUC setback

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to uphold their unity and collaboration beyond the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship race, emphasising that their bond should not be broken by the election outcome.

Speaking on Sunday, February 16, 2025, during the induction of Rev. Stephen Mawira as the Bishop-elect of the Methodist Church of Kenya Nkubu Synod at Ntemwene Methodist Church in Meru County, Kindiki praised Kenya’s strong performance in the AUC race despite not securing the top seat.

He noted that over 20 African nations had thrown their weight behind Kenya’s candidate, demonstrating the country’s growing influence in continental affairs.

Kenya’s strong showing

Reflecting on the AUC election, Kindiki thanked President Ruto and Raila for leading Kenya’s spirited bid, saying their joint efforts showcased rare national unity.

Despite Raila’s withdrawal after the sixth round of voting, Kindiki emphasised that Kenya had made a strong impression, securing the backing of more than 20 African leaders.

“Kidogo jana tumekuwa kama nchi tumekuwa tukitafuta mmoja wetu kuongoza bara la Afrika lakini hatukufanikiwa,” Kindiki remarked, acknowledging that while Kenya had not clinched the seat, the country had put up a formidable fight.

He stressed that the loss should not overshadow the significant strides made and that Kenya’s moment to lead the AU would come in the future.

Kindiki also urged continued collaboration between Ruto, Raila, and other leaders, stating that their unity should not end with the AUC race but should be extended towards securing peace, stability, and development in Kenya.

Raila’s exit

Raila Odinga’s journey in the AUC chairmanship race came to an end on Saturday, February 15, 2025, after six rounds of intense voting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

He initially led in the first round with 20 votes, followed closely by Djibouti’s candidate Mahmoud Ali Youssouf with 18 votes and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato with 10 votes.

As the rounds progressed, Raila remained competitive, securing 22 votes in the second round and 20 in the third.

However, Mahmoud gained momentum, taking the lead in the fourth round with 25 votes against Raila’s 21. By the fifth and sixth rounds, Mahmoud had widened the gap, prompting Raila to withdraw from the contest.

Despite the setback, Raila graciously accepted the results, stating that he had no regrets and remained open to serving Africa in other capacities.

“I therefore concede defeat and want us to use this as an example of strengthening democracy on our continent. I wish Mahamoud Ali Youssouf all the best and success in his undertaking. I also want to thank both those who voted for me and those who did not for exercising their democratic rights. I am not bitter; I’m very happy indeed,” Raila commented.

President Ruto also acknowledged the outcome, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to continental leadership.

Ruto-Raila friendship

Kindiki underscored that the partnership between Ruto and Raila, which had been instrumental in Kenya’s campaign for the AUC seat, should not be discarded simply because the election did not go as planned.

He urged them to channel the same unity into Kenya’s national affairs, working together for the country’s peace and progress.

He lauded their ability to put aside political differences for a common cause and called on them to continue collaborating in matters of national importance.

“We just want to ask that the president and the former prime minister will continue working together to build the unity of Kenya and secure peace and stability for our country the same way we were working together in that project,” Kindiki emphasised.

The deputy president’s remarks come at a time when political analysts are closely watching whether the Ruto-Raila partnership, forged in pursuit of the AUC seat, will extend into Kenya’s domestic political landscape.