Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni has claimed that Raila Odinga will indeed contest the presidency in 2027, even if he secures the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.
Kioni emphasized that winning the AUC role would serve as a strategic move for Odinga, positioning him for the upcoming presidential race.
He acknowledged that recent meetings between Odinga, President William Ruto, and Ugandan President Museveni have caused further divisions within the Azimio coalition.
"Raila Odinga will unquestionably be on the ballot in the next general election. While his explanations regarding recent meetings were not entirely satisfactory to us in Azimio, we have accepted his narrative due to a lack of alternative options," Kioni in an interview on Kameme FM on Monday.
Kioni reaffirmed Azimio's commitment to hold the government accountable and ensure the fulfilment of campaign promises.
He, along with Martha Karua, the leader of the Narc Kenya party, pledged to continue advocating for the interests of the Mount Kenya region within the opposition.
Warning against potential marginalization of the Mount Kenya region, Kioni stressed the importance of unity and collective voice in national politics to safeguard the region's relevance and prosperity.
“Mount Kenya region risks losing its relevance in national political discourse if they fail to unite and speak in one voice, we are supporting anyone who is preaching about unity in the Mount Kenya region irrespective of political affiliation," he said.
Kioni reiterated that Odinga's pursuit of the AUC chairmanship is primarily a strategic move to bide time until the 2027 presidential contest.
Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria during an interview with Spice Radio on Monday maintained that Raila will be on the ballot to face off with President Ruto.
"Baba [Odinga] seeks to occupy himself constructively while awaiting the presidential election. His leadership belongs in national politics, not as chairman of the AUC," Kuria stated during the interview on Spice FM.
Kuria affirmed his support for Odinga's AU bid, highlighting its potential economic benefits for the region.
Mount Kenya leaders had recently cautioned President Ruto to tread carefully in his dealings with Odinga to avoid destabilizing the Kenya Kwanza government.
