Raila threatens to Drop AUC bid should proposed national dialogue fail to best fruits

Nairobi, 

Sunday, 21 July, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has threatened to drop his Candidacy for the African Union Chairperson seat incase the proposed national dialogue fails to bear fruits. 

Speaking in Dubai where the Former premier traveled for undisclosed reasons,Raila noted that he was disturbed by reports alleging that he is being manipulated to support Ruto's government in exchanging for lobbying for the AUC top seat could not be further from the truth.

The former Prime Minister reiterated his dedication to the ongoing reforms, stating, "I am ready to forgo my AUC ambitions for the sake of my country if this is being used to manipulate me at the expense of the quest for a better and stable country." He said. 

Odinga dismissed these claims as baseless propaganda spread by detractors of the Azimio La Umoja, One Kenya Coalition.

"The idea that I have agreed to such a government is entirely false," Odinga declared. He reaffirmed his solidarity for the ongoing Gen-Z protests, stating that he will continue to stand in solidarity with the movement because they are raising genuine issues that Azimio raised last year, but which are yet to be addressed. 

This comes shortly after Raila penned an open letter issuing area of focus during the proposed national dialogue and altmatums that will shape the discourse for action. 

In the letter, Raila demanded for Justice and compensation for the families and victims of rhe Gen-Z protests or else there will be no dialogue. 

Odinga emphasized that the conditions he issued will demonstrate to Kenyans Ruto and Gachagua’s good will that can create conducive environment for a National Broad-Based People's Convention to address the nation's critical issues. 

Raila's altmatums further adress the high cost of living (including housing levy), youth unemployment, rampant corruption, ethnic/ tribal discrimination in government appointments and the need for a transparent auditing of national debts and debt management. 

Additionally, Odinga stressed the necessity for the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

He also spoke against the re-appointment of dismissed member of the cabinet secretary. 

Odinga further refuted rumours of discord within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) or Azimio calling such reports fabrications.