Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has strongly refuted claims that his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship cost Kenyan taxpayers a staggering Sh13 billion. Speaking on the matter, Raila dismissed the allegations as baseless, questioning the credibility of those spreading the figures.
“Some people say it was Sh13 billion spent on the Raila Campaign. I don’t know which world they live in,” he remarked. “A billion shillings to do what? The money that was spent was necessary for transport to travel around, and we were not living luxuriously.”
The veteran opposition leader emphasized that his campaign team operated within reasonable financial limits. He clarified that many African nations extended their generosity, offering accommodation and support to his delegation. According to Raila, the campaign expenses were primarily related to travel logistics and official engagements, with no room for extravagance.
Raila also expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other government agencies that facilitated his campaign. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was available 24/7, and other government departments made appointments for us. I want to thank my brother for this support,” he added, possibly referencing President William Ruto or a key government official who played a role in coordinating the efforts.
The controversy over the alleged expenditure has been fueled by speculation and political debates, with critics questioning the government’s financial priorities. The claim that billions were spent has ignited discussions on public funds accountability, especially given Kenya’s current economic struggles.
However, Raila’s firm denial adds a new dimension to the debate, with his allies arguing that such figures are being exaggerated for political reasons. The government has yet to release a detailed breakdown of the costs incurred during the campaign, leaving room for further speculation.
While Raila’s bid for the AUC chairmanship was unsuccessful, his campaign sparked a continental conversation about Kenya’s diplomatic influence and its role in African leadership. Despite the loss, he maintains that the experience was significant and that Kenya should continue positioning itself for major leadership roles within the African Union.
As the debate over campaign expenditure continues, the question remains: was the cost of Raila’s AUC bid justified, or is this another case of political misinformation? The public and policymakers will likely continue dissecting the issue, demanding clarity on how much was actually spent.
