Following Raila Odinga's formal announcement on Thursday that he was running for the position of chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Secretary General Edwin Sifuna of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has allayed fears that the party leader would step down from active politics in Kenya.
The Senator from Nairobi denied reports that Mr. Odinga had left the arena in a later press conference, stressing that the opposition leader still has a long way to go in his political career.
He referred to Mr. Odinga's most recent position with the AU as the High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, pointing out that he was still juggling his dual roles as the head of the opposition.
"As the ODM Secretary General, I want to thank my party leader, Odinga, for their interest in AU leadership. I don't think there will be any political effect on matters ODM or how we conduct our party affairs," stated Sifuna.
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"It is not the first time Odinga has assumed roles at the AU; after the 2017 General Election, he was elected as head of infrastructure development in Africa for the AU."
He added: "I don't see any problem or any difference in ODM or national politics…Baba atasalia kukuwa Baba, and you will continue seeing him giving his opinion on key national issues."
The outspoken lawmaker continued by accusing those criticizing Mr. Odinga of only propagating the story of his retirement to gain an advantage over him in the political arena.
Sifuna praised Mr. Odinga as an experienced politician who will continue to impact party leadership and other critical national issues.
"He has done the assignment before, I don't see any difference between now and his past roles at AU. I also don't see why someone should think that the 2018 and 2022 period are different," added the Senator.
“Raila ako na uzito katika siasa zetu za Kenya na kuna wale ambao wangetaka kuona mgongo wake siasani sababu ni waoga na wanajua uzito wake. I know there are those scared and wishing that he bows out of the political arena, so we want to assure them that Baba is here and is not going anywhere."
On Wednesday, the former premier declared his interest in the top position at the AU, adding that he had discussed his choice with many of his friends before making it.
"Should the leadership of Africa want my services, I am ready and offer myself to serve this continent. I'm ready, yes, to go for the chairmanship of the African Union," said Mr. Odinga in a press address flanked by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
