Migori Senator Eddie Oketch says that Raila Odinga doesn't need the government's support to become the head of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Sources suggest that the political firebrand is vying for the lucrative continental role, which is now held by Chad's Moussa Faki and is slated to expire this year.
During an interview with Citizen TV, Oketch stated that Odinga does not require government assistance because of his strong global networks, which might propel him to the post.
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He maintained that Odinga commands more diplomatic and political respect than President William Ruto and, hence, does not require his assistance to gain the office.
"If you look at the way AU selects their chairperson, there is no structure whatsoever that needs endorsement or mercy by a president," he said.
"Raila has massive connections and respect across the globe. I can argue that today, if you were to compare Raila Odinga and President Ruto in terms of respect, Raila goes way above Ruto."
Oketch was rebutting Kiliifi North MP Owen Baya's claims that he still requires government goodwill despite Odinga's polished profile and track record.
Odinga formerly served as the African Union's (AU) special envoy for infrastructure development in Africa.
He was appointed to the office on October 20, 2018, under the leadership of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and resigned controversially in 2023.
