Ruto Urges Kenyans to Back Raila's AUC Bid: 'He Has What It Takes.

President William Ruto is urging the nation to rally behind Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson position.

Speaking on Saturday in Kakamega during a thanksgiving ceremony for Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya in Butere Constituency, President Ruto emphasized that Odinga's victory would be a triumph for all Kenyans.

The President praised Odinga as a seasoned Pan-Africanist with the necessary qualifications to lead the African continent. “Let us unite and support our candidate, Raila Odinga, for the AUC chair,” Ruto stated, adding, “Raila has everything it takes to lead the AUC... his victory is not just his own but a victory for Kenya.” 

Ruto also took the opportunity to call for reconciliation, urging political rivals to put aside their differences and unite behind a broad-based government for the sake of the country's future.

"Previously, some leaders were advocating for cutting down trees… now I say, let’s plant trees... and that’s why I have established an inclusive government," Ruto remarked.

President Ruto's call for support comes just days before he is set to hand over a flag to Odinga, marking the start of his continental campaign.

Leaders from the ODM party who attended the event urged the five Cabinet Secretaries appointed from the opposition to fulfill their duties with integrity and without fear.

"To the Cabinet Secretaries from ODM, do not disappoint us... we are watching closely. We want you to work so well that the President will recognize ODM as the party for 2027," said Kisii Governor Simba Arati.