- Governor Simba Arati has commended President William Ruto for his efforts during Raila Odinga's AUC campaign.
- Arati expressed her disappointment after leaders who publicly pledged their support for her during a meeting in China ultimately voted for Mahamoud Youssouf, the Djibouti candidate.
- The Kisii leader emphasized the importance of unity in the nation, pointing out that the establishment of an inclusive government has contributed to the country's progress.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati has praised President William Ruto for his backing of Azimio leader Raila Odinga in his bid for African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Addressing a crowd in Addis Ababa on Saturday, February 15, following the elections, Arati emphasized the president's efforts in mobilizing support for Raila, even though he ultimately lost to Djibouti's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.
Arati stated that he, the president, and Raila traveled to China and interacted with various heads of state, some of whom pledged their support but ultimately cast their votes against Kenya's candidate.
I want to express my gratitude, Your Excellency, because I know you dedicated yourself fully to this campaign. I recall our trip to China, where we met with individuals who assured us their support, but unfortunately, they didn't follow through. Your tireless efforts, accompanied by the former prime minister, have demonstrated the importance of unity as a nation.
MP Simba Arati has welcomed the formation of a broad-based government.
He expressed discontent with the unfulfilled promises, but stressed the significance of unity and the need for the nation to come together in prayer.
The governor also commended the establishment of a comprehensive government, highlighting its progress in propelling the nation forward.
He urged both President Ruto and Raila to stay focused, noting that success demands persistence and unity.
"We've made significant progress since joining forces, and we're hopeful that the momentum will carry over back home. Your Excellency, the president and the former prime minister remain resolute and forward-looking, undeterred by potential obstacles. As always, nothing worthwhile comes easily, and everything requires time and effort," the governor noted.
Did Raila Odinga win the AUC race?
Despite a strong campaign, Raila lost to Youssouf, who secured 33 votes in the seventh round of voting after Raila dropped out in the sixth round, in accordance with AUC election regulations.
After his defeat, Raila conceded graciously, promising to offer his support to the continent whenever necessary.
The newly elected chairperson of the African Union Commission, Youssouf, thanked the heads of state who voted for him and asked for guidance throughout his four-year term.
Raila's opponents, Uhuru's allies, celebrate his AUC loss
In a celebratory atmosphere, allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua compared Raila's defeat to the time Gachagua faced impeachment proceedings.
Murang'a Senator Joe Nyutu urged that Raila's loss be converted into a nationwide movement to save Kenya from what he described as "dictatorial and intolerant rule."
Meanwhile, Kirinyaga Jubilee Party chairman Muriithi Kangara criticized the selection of Raila as a candidate.
He contended that if Deputy President William Ruto had backed either retired President Uhuru Kenyatta or Narc-Kenya's Martha Karua, either would have had a stronger chance of securing the seat.