MPs now want Raila to quit politics, concentrate on AU job

A section of Members of Parliament allied to the Jubilee Party and National Super Alliance (NASA) are now asking Opposition chief Raila Odinga to retire from local politics and concentrate on his new appointment to the African Union.

Speaking in Kesses Constituency, Uasin Gishu County on Sunday during a fundraising exercise, the leaders argued that Mr. Odinga’s new job is quite demanding and he should distance himself from local politics.

Among the over 18 legislators pushing the agenda are Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichungwa, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa and Oscar Sudi of Kapsaret.

“Because he has a bigger job in the whole of Africa, he should now leave local politics to us, ” Nyoro said.

“The kind of job Raila has been given in South Africa doesn’t allow him to participate in politics, he should leave politics to us,” added Barasa.

The sentiments were also shared by former Kakamega Senator Bonny Khalwale who said Odinga’s time in politics has elapsed and he should focus on preparing the youth to take over.

“An old man is not allowed to dance with young people, Raila played dance with Matiba, Moi and Kibaki, he should quit now because his time is over,” Khalwale said.

The legislators further rooted for William Ruto’s 2022 presidential ambitions.

“We have no doubt that William Ruto will succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2022 and continue with the trans-formative agenda of changing peoples lives, ” Kimani Ichungwa said.

Odinga was appointed as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa by Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat.

President Uhuru Kenyatta in a statement to newsrooms lauded Odinga’s appointment saying it was a great honour not only for the former premier but also to the people and the Republic of Kenya.

Deputy President William Ruto also congratulated Odinga saying the role is key to developing linkages across the continent, boosting intra-Africa trade and integration.