Belgut MP Nelson Koech has suggested that the Kenya Kwanza government should find a way to incorporate former Prime Minister Raila Odinga into its leadership structure. The proposal comes on the heels of Raila’s defeat in the race for the African Union chairperson position, which was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this past Saturday.
Raila, who had been a prominent contender for the top AU post, was ultimately eliminated after trailing Djibouti’s candidate, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, in multiple rounds of voting. Despite the loss, Koech believes that Raila’s energy, wisdom, and vast political experience should not be left untapped. Instead, he argues, the government should create an avenue where the veteran politician’s expertise could contribute to the country’s development.
Speaking to the press, Koech expressed his admiration for Raila’s experience and leadership, noting that his counsel could be a valuable asset to the Kenya Kwanza administration. “What will Raila do with his energy, wisdom, and experience? I think we in Kenya Kwanza should accommodate that experience,” Koech stated, emphasizing the importance of leveraging Raila’s long-standing role in Kenya’s political landscape.
Koech further explained that the loss in the AU chairperson election should not be seen as the end but rather an opportunity to bring about a fresh phase of collaboration. He proposed that Raila’s inclusion in the government could take various forms, focusing on the value of his political and diplomatic resources rather than offering him a specific position. According to the MP, the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which was drafted following discussions between the government and opposition, could serve as a starting point for this potential collaboration.
“It’s really about his resources as a person,” Koech explained. He underscored that the inclusion of Raila’s wealth of experience in government would be beneficial to the nation, without necessarily being tied to a formal title or post.
This proposal follows the successful inclusion of individuals from Raila’s political camp into key government positions, which Koech praised. Cabinet Secretaries hailing from Raila’s side have performed commendably so far, and Koech believes that further inclusion could only strengthen the nation’s governance.
As Kenya continues to navigate its political landscape, Koech’s call for Raila’s inclusion adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing discussions about national unity and collaboration between political rivals.
