Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Kenyan MPs who traveled to Addis Ababa in support of his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Addressing the lawmakers in the Ethiopian capital on Sunday, Raila acknowledged their dedication, noting that some traveled from as far as Mandera, with a few even making the journey by bus.
“I want to begin by thanking all of you. You made me so proud that you travelled all the way from Kenya to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to be with Baba,” he said, visibly moved.
Despite entering the race as a favorite, Raila lost to Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf after seven rounds of voting. He initially led the first two rounds but was overtaken after Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato was eliminated.
Even in defeat, Raila’s spirit remained unbroken. In a light-hearted moment, he was seen swaying to Sauti Sol’s Senje alongside Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo. His radiant smile and raised fist in solidarity sparked chants of “Baba! Baba!” from the crowd, showcasing his unwavering resilience.
Nearly 100 MPs, accompanied by governors and government officials, traveled to Addis in solidarity with Raila.
They were joined by President William Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. NIS boss Noordin Haji and National Security Adviser Monica Juma were also present.
Although only heads of state participated in the voting, the MPs’ presence symbolized a strong show of national unity behind Kenya’s candidate.
