Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary, Opiyo Wandayi, has expressed profound gratitude towards President William Ruto, calling him a dependable and trustworthy ally. This praise follows Ruto’s active support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the Chairperson position at the African Union Commission (AUC), despite Odinga’s eventual defeat.
Speaking during the handover of a newly constructed girls’ dormitory at Siburi Secondary School in Homa Bay County, an initiative funded by the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), Wandayi acknowledged Ruto’s commitment to Odinga’s cause. “We must thank most profusely President William Ruto for taking time and dedicating resources, all the possible resources at his disposal, to ensure Raila Odinga clinched the AUC Chairperson seat,” Wandayi stated. This sentiment marks a rare moment of public acknowledgment from a political ally of Raila Odinga, who has often been in opposition to Ruto’s administration.
Wandayi highlighted Ruto’s tireless efforts in supporting Odinga, asserting that despite the final election results, the President’s involvement was pivotal. “President Ruto did whatever he could. He went out of his way and worked tirelessly for Baba (Raila Odinga) to win. Even though the results came out the way they did, we cannot forget the work that was put in by President William Ruto,” he remarked.
The 2024 AUC election, which saw Odinga lose to incumbent Moussa Faki, was a high-stakes diplomatic and political contest, with significant backing from various African nations. However, the defeat did not diminish the support Ruto showed throughout the process. According to Wandayi, the entire exercise offered critical lessons, especially about political alliances. “We have emerged from this experience wiser. We now know who our true friends are,” he concluded, reflecting the insights gained from the campaign’s outcome.
Wandayi’s comments suggest a growing sense of respect and appreciation for Ruto, even from political figures who have historically been at odds with his administration. This public acknowledgment underscores a shift in the political landscape, where alliances and relationships appear to be evolving beyond the usual partisan lines.
In conclusion, Wandayi’s tribute to President Ruto is not just a recognition of his efforts in the AUC elections but also a testament to the dynamic nature of Kenya’s political relationships. It highlights a moment where political rivals can put aside differences for a common cause, with Wandayi affirming that Ruto has proven himself as a “dependable ally” and someone whose word can be trusted.
