Raila doesn't need Ruto's support for AU chair job – Senator Oketch

Migori Senator Eddie Oketch has said that Azimio leader Raila Odinga does not need the support of the Kenya Kwanza administration to become the next chairperson of the African Union Commission.

Speaking on Thursday, Oketch said that Raila as an individual has great networks and respect that is enough to earn him the job.

He went on to state that compared to President William Ruto, the Opposition leader ranks higher than the Head of State continentally.

"Raila Odinga has massive networks and massive respect across the globe. I can argue that in the continent today, if you were to compare Raila Odinga and President Ruto in terms of continental respect both diplomatic and political, Raila scores way above Ruto. His network spans way above Ruto," Oketch said on Citizen TV.

He, however, claimed that the reports of the government pushing to have the former Prime Minister in charge of the AU is a strategy to stop him from fighting for Kenyans.

The Migori Senator added that Raila has also not publicly declared that he is vying for the post.

"Raila Odinga hasn't pronounced himself on this matter... Raila is a consultative leader," he said.

Senator Oketch's remarks come against the backdrop of reports that President Ruto is backing Raila to take up the job.

Any candidate for the AU top job must be fronted by member states.

The reports further said the lobbying for Raila would start at the 44th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s Executive Council in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kenya was represented at the summit by Prime Cabinet Secretary and CS for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi.

Other reports said that Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta was also eying the top African Union job, but could have accepted to drop his candidature in favour of Raila.

Ruto's fronting of Raila for the continental job would radically shift the country's political landscape as it would almost amount to “a handshake”.

It would also remove Raila from the 2027 presidential race, triggering fresh realignments.

AU chairpersons are required to be neutral in political contests across the continent.

The AU Commission chair is a big post that elevates the holder to a near head of state.

The office holder is a key player in major international happenings, including elections, conflicts and development, not only in Africa but globally.