- Opposition leader Raila Odinga conceded defeat in the AUC elections and pledged to provide assistance when needed.
- President William Ruto expressed his congratulations to Raila, acknowledging the tremendous efforts he had put in, and emphasized that the African Union election was not focused on individual interests, but rather on the future of the continent.
- Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna lavished Raila with praise, expressing profound admiration for his leadership.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has officially accepted defeat in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship in the elections held on Saturday, February 15.
Raila, who was one of the top contenders, accepted the outcome and stated his intention to return home to concentrate on other key tasks that are crucial for the nation.
Despite his defeat, Raila's spirited campaign and vision for Africa's advancement have earned praise from many Kenyans.
Many residents took to social media to praise the former prime minister for his dedication and efforts to secure the top leadership position, which they see as a testament to his strong commitment to the continent's progress.
The election has also triggered responses from various leaders, including President William Ruto, who sent Raila congratulatory messages for his impressive campaign and willingness to serve Africa.
Raila's loss occurred after Djibouti's Foreign Affairs Minister Mahamoud Youssouf secured the 33 votes needed to clinch the AUC chairmanship.
Nonetheless, Raila's campaign emphasized Kenya's increasing presence in African leadership and its aspiration to play a more prominent role on the continent.
Which world leaders have extended their congratulations to Raila after the African Union election loss?
1. William Ruto
The president expressed his appreciation to Africa's leaders for considering Raila's vision and priorities for the African Union, noting that the election was not about individuals or countries, but about Africa's future.
He reiterated his faith in the continent's promising future and urged ongoing efforts toward unity, prosperity, and increased global impact.
I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the leaders of our continent for considering Kenya's candidate and for allowing him to share his vision and priorities for the African Union. Thank you for recognizing the Right Honourable Raila Odinga's dedication to Africa's transformation. This election was not about personal or national interests, it was about shaping a brighter future for the continent. That future remains promising, and together, we will continue working towards a unified, prosperous, and influential Africa in the global community.
2. Kithure Kindiki
The deputy president expressed his appreciation to Ruto, Raila, and his campaign team for their efforts, taking pride in their near success, and thanked the Kenyan supporters, remaining optimistic about future victories.
We've worked tirelessly, our candidate Raila Odinga and his team, but unfortunately, we came up short. We're proud of our nation, which showed remarkable resilience. Although today didn't work in our favor, we're confident that our time will come. We're grateful to all those who supported us, especially our friends from abroad, who stood by us when it mattered most.
3. Musalia Mudavadi
The head of Kenya's Prime Cabinet commended Raila's energetic campaign for the AUC chairmanship, which showcased Kenya's leadership role in Africa.
He praised the united stance taken by President Ruto and expressed pride in their endeavours despite the results.
Congratulating Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi on their success, Mudavadi expressed respect for the results and confidence in their leadership to shape the AU's future.
Raila Odinga ran a vigorous campaign, covering a wide ground in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson position. Although the outcome was not in his favor, his efforts highlighted Kenya's leadership on the continent. With President William Ruto's support, they presented a united front that made our nation proud.
In the true spirit of our democratic traditions, we acknowledge the outcomes and offer our congratulations to H.E. Mahmoud Youssouf and his deputy, Selma Haddadi, on their well-deserved success. We look forward to their leadership in shaping the future of the African Union.
4. Amason Kingi
The Senate Speaker praised Raila for his energetic campaign, stating that it was not a defeat, but a demonstration of his influence extending far beyond the office. He commended Raila as a source of national pride and warmly welcomed him back home.
Warmest congratulations to Raila Odinga for the spirited contest on behalf of Kenya. This isn't a loss. It's a confirmation that you are just too big for this seat. You remain our pride. Welcome home, father.
5. Moses Wetang'ula
The speaker of the National Assembly commended Raila for his unwavering dedication, his ability to persevere in the face of adversity, and his unrelenting commitment to the African continent, noting that his spirited campaign embodied his vision for a more robust and harmonized Africa.
To our very own Raila Odinga, we celebrate your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the African continent. Your spirited campaign was a testament to your vision for a more unified and stronger Africa.
6. Kipchumba Murkomen
The Interior CS praised Raila for a well-fought campaign and the president for his leadership, highlighting Kenya's unity in both winning and losing.
He emphasized Raila's commitment to democratic values, love of country, and pan-African ideals as valuable assets for the nation and the continent.
Congratulations former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on a campaign well contested and our President William Ruto for leading and giving the Kenyan campaign your all. As a country, we unite and succeed together or fall together.
Hon Raila's democratic credentials, patriotism, and unmatched pan-African spirit will continue to be valuable assets both domestically and on the continent."
7. John Mbadi
The Treasury CS expressed pride in Kenya's efforts, commending the country for its outstanding performance and noting that Kenyans can hold their heads high as a fortunate nation.
We are proud of you, Kenya. You have done exceptionally well. We will continue to move forward with our heads held high. We are a fortunate Nation. May God bless Kenya.
8. Aden Duale
The Environment CS has welcomed Raila's AUC candidacy as a step forward for Africa's unity and prosperity, highlighting his vision for democracy and Kenya's leadership role with Ruto's backing.
Africa's path towards unity and prosperity accelerated with Raila Odinga's bid for the AUC presidency. His vision for democracy and governance resonated profoundly, highlighting Kenya's potential to shape the continent's future. With President William Ruto's support, Kenya demonstrated its willingness to take a leading role.
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You will always be the Baba, Baba!
10. Edwin Sifuna
The Nairobi senator expressed deep admiration for Raila, referring to him as a mentor, leader, and friend. He assured Raila of unwavering love and pride, stating that nothing has changed and he will always have a home.
My leader, mentor, friend, and boss. You have a home here. Please return. We still have affection for you. We are proud of you. Nothing has changed.
11. Oscar Sudi
The Kapseret MP recognized Kenyans' disappointment with the election results, but encouraged everyone to pray and warmly welcome Raila Odinga back home, highlighting the challenges that lie ahead.
A lot of Kenyans are feeling let down by the election results, but there's no cause for concern. Let everyone say their prayers before going to bed. Let's extend a warm welcome to Baba, as there's much to be done ahead.
12. Peter Kaluma
The Homa Bay Town MP commended Ruto for his efforts and Raila for running a notable campaign, stating that the experience exposed those opposing Kenya's interests.
Thank you, President William Ruto. You have done your best. Thank you, Baba Raila Odinga. You ran the best campaign you could and gave it your all. The bright side is clear—we now know who our adversaries are.
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Senior Economic Advisor Moses Kuria expressed disappointment with the outcome, stating that Raila's loss was a missed opportunity for Africa to benefit from a forward-thinking and ambitious leader.
He warned about potential challenges the continent may encounter in the future and expressed confidence that Raila would be given a warm reception back home, where Kenya would benefit from the leadership qualities Africa has lacked.