The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party Leader Raila Odinga has revealed the decision behind African Union terminating his role as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa.
In a statement, the ODM leader disclosed that he was the one who requested the AU chairperson Moussa Faki to relieve him from the special envoy duties citing challenges about him carrying with his roles.
“During our meeting on the sidelines of the second Dakar African Infrastructure Financing Summit in Dakar, Senegal about three weeks ago, I indicated the challenges to my continued availability for the role of AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa,” Odinga wrote.
The former prime minister thanked the AU chairperson for acting swiftly to his request.
“I welcome your quick action that will free me to pursue other pressing and urgent matters.”
The former Premier, who assumed the role in 2018, challenged the continent’s leadership to have Africa’s best interests at heart.
“I am proud to have made a contribution to the transformation of the NEPAD Agency to the African Union Development Agency, among other contributions during my tenure. Many challenges remain, including the inaction by the Continent’s leadership and vested interests outside the Continent that are only too keen to keep Africa in its present condition. Hopefully, the continent will overcome these,” he said.
He added: “I will be indicating when I might be available for deployment on continental assignment as circumstances change. Please, accept the assurances of my highest consideration and personal esteem.”
