Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced that Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah will serve as the chief agent for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) elections.
Speaking in Kajiado County on Friday, January 24, Kindiki revealed that the National Assembly Majority Leader will travel to Addis Ababa ahead of the February elections to support Raila’s bid.
According to the Deputy President, Ichung’wah’s role mirrors that of a chief agent in Kenya’s presidential elections.
“I was the chief agent for William Ruto during the presidential election. I stayed at Bomas for almost seven days,” Kindiki noted. “Now, the responsibility of being Raila Odinga’s chief agent in Addis Ababa will rest on Kimani Ichung’wah. We will not allow you to return home until the results are announced. Work hard so that we do not lose.”
The AUC Elections
Raila Odinga is one of three candidates vying for the AUC chairperson position. His challengers include Mahmoud Ali of Djibouti, who is considered his closest competitor, and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.
The elections are scheduled for February during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly.
Raila’s Campaigns
Raila has ramped up his campaigns across the continent, with recent visits to southern African nations to rally support for his bid.
In a statement, Raila shared his vision for the continent:
“I envision a united Africa characterized by peace, prosperity, and sustainable progress for all. We must harness our vast human and natural resources and integrate the energy of our youth with the vision and wisdom of our leaders,” he said.
“As a lifelong Pan-Africanist, I will offer participatory leadership to ensure delivery on the priorities of the African peoples as envisioned in the African Union Agenda 2063.”
Ichung’wah’s appointment underscores the significance of Raila’s candidacy and the government’s support for his efforts to secure the AUC chairperson position.
