- Raila has not yet made a public statement on the AU job offer, but sources close to him say he is weighing his options carefully.
Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga is trending on social media as Kenyans react to the news that he has been offered a job at the African Union (AU) as the chairperson of the continental body.
The offer comes amid intense lobbying by the Kenya Kwanza administration, which is keen to lock him out of local politics.
However, Raila’s allies in Azimio are urging him to reject the offer and focus on his presidential ambitions in 2027. They argue that Raila is the best candidate to succeed President William Ruto.
Raila has not yet made a public statement on the AU job offer, but sources close to him say he is weighing his options carefully.
Some analysts say that taking up the AU job would enhance his international profile and reputation, but it would also limit his influence and visibility in the local political scene.
Others say that staying in Kenya would allow him to continue championing reforms and democracy, but it would also expose him to the risks and challenges of competing against a well-resourced and popular incumbent.
The debate over Raila’s future has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some users praising him for his achievements and contributions to the country, and others criticizing him for his alleged selfishness and opportunism.
Some of the posts on X include:
@itskipronoh: The election of Raila Odinga as Chairperson of the African Union Commission is going to hit like a crack. We will be there no matter what!
@NetyaWamukoya: At 83 someone is still looking for a job!
@AlinurMohamed: I fully support Raila Odinga on bid AU chairmanship championship
@ItsMutai: Raila Odinga announces publicly he will contest AU Commission Chairperson. Odinga, backed by President Ruto, is being fronted by Kenya, and has the backing of East Africa.
