Azimio leader Raila Odinga has responded after a letter emerged stating that he was leaving his role at the African Union.

In the letter, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, thanked the former prime minister for his service and wished him all the best in his plans adding that African Union Development Agency - New Partnership for Africa's Development (AUDA-NEPAD) will take over the role.

PHOTO | COURTESY Raila Odinga

Part of the letter reads, "Your role in this journey, Excellency, has been invaluable. Allow me to express my profound gratitude for accepting to serve in this role during the transition period, which has now come to a happy conclusion.

Raila Odinga shared his response on Twitter, saying that he had asked to be received of his duties because his time was limited and he was focusing on other issues.

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"During our meeting on the sidelines of the 2nd 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. In that regard, I welcome your quick action that will free me to pursue other pressing and urgent matters," he said.

The former prime minister said that it was an honour to serve the African Union and that he is proud of the work that he has done for the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD.

It has been a great pleasure and honour serving our Continent and our people and addressing Infrastructure development," Odinga said, "I am proud to have made a contribution to the transformation of the NEPAD Agency to African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, 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."

Raila concluded the letter by saying that he would notify the commission when he is available for deployment on continental assignment as circumstances change.