Reports about the exit of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga from his position as the African Union Commission’s high representative for infrastructure development in Africa have sparked controversy.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, a close ally of Raila, has defended him by stating that he voluntarily resigned in order to pursue other urgent matters.
Osotsi also denied speculations that President William Ruto was involved in Raila’s departure, asserting that the decision was made by the plenary of the Head of State, not by one individual.
Senator Osotsi also highlighted Raila’s active participation in politics while serving in the AU, including running for the presidency.
He questioned why, if Ruto had been involved, he had not appointed another Kenyan to replace Raila.
Meanwhile, African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed his gratitude to Raila for his service, informing him that with the conversion of the Nepad Agency to the African Union Development Agency, Nepad had the full mandate to implement the continental agenda on infrastructure.
Raila’s tenure as head of infrastructure development in Africa was successful, according to Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang.
Kajwang noted Raila’s efforts in spearheading Africa’s infrastructure agenda.
Despite the position having no definite period of tenure, MPs from the Azimio coalition continue to defend Raila over his controversial departure from the AU.
