President William Ruto’s support for opposition leader Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship bid has ignited discussions about political alliances and the true nature of leadership in Kenya. Some leaders in Nyanza have urged residents to avoid blaming the President for Raila’s loss, emphasizing that Ruto demonstrated goodwill before and during the election.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, and Suba South MP Caroli Omondi have come forward to defend the President’s role in the campaign. Speaking at Siburi Secondary School, where they commissioned a girls’ dormitory constructed by the Kenya Pipeline Company Foundation, the leaders highlighted Ruto’s commitment to Raila’s candidacy, asserting that his efforts should not be overlooked.
“President Ruto demonstrated the traits of a good leader and true friend in supporting Raila’s campaign,” said Wandayi. “Those who blame him shouldn’t be listened to.” His sentiments were echoed by Omollo, who cautioned against divisive politics, urging Kenyans to remain united and move forward despite the election outcome.
The election, held last Saturday in Addis Ababa, saw Raila lose to Djibouti’s Mohamoud Ali. In response, sections of Kisumu erupted in protests, with chants of ‘Ruto must go’ ringing through parts of the city. This reaction reflects the deep political divisions that persist in the country, especially between Raila’s strongholds and the current administration.
Political analysts have pointed out that Ruto’s actions in the weeks leading up to the election may have inadvertently hurt Raila’s chances. Some argue that certain foreign policy moves by Kenya could have alienated key voting blocs within the AU, influencing the final decision. However, leaders backing Ruto insist that he did everything possible to rally support for Raila and that blaming him is misplaced.
Omollo emphasized the need for Kenyans, particularly those in Nyanza, to avoid being swayed by leaders who wish to exploit the loss for political gain. “Let us give leaders time to serve the people through development projects,” he urged, reinforcing the need for unity and progress.
Despite the setback, Omondi remained optimistic, encouraging Kenyans to continue seeking opportunities both locally and internationally. “Let us encourage our leader Raila to remain confident in securing future opportunities,” he said.
As the dust settles on the AUC election, the focus now shifts to how Kenya’s leadership navigates the aftermath, ensuring that political affiliations do not hinder the country’s development agenda.
