Nyandarua Senator John Methu on Tuesday, February 11, expressed concerns over reports that Kenyan lawmakers are set to join Raila Odinga’s delegation for the African Union Chair elections on Saturday.
Speaking during a TV interview, Methu questioned the decision, raising concerns about the potential misuse of taxpayers’ money.
According to Methu, a close ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Raila already has sufficient support ahead of the AUC elections, as his dedicated secretariat has been managing his intensive campaign for the continental position.
"I hope and imagine that the 100 MPs accompanying Baba to Ethiopia are doing so at their own expense," Methu said. He added, "We cannot afford to be wasteful. Raila Odinga has his own secretariat. In my opinion, the MPs have no significant role apart from the general support we are already providing."
He added, "We cannot then be, as a government, sending 100 MPs from tomorrow to Saturday just to idle around Addis Ababa. These are the kinds of things that are choking and hurting the people of Kenya."
As days wind down to the big day, media reports suggest that Raila is set to be accompanied by a contingent of dignitaries to Addis Ababa on Saturday. This includes President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and other top state officials.
Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah is expected to be Raila’s chief agent at the AU Summit this weekend.
However, the idea of Members of Parliament, governors and senators accompanying Raila to the event has sparked debate, with Kenyans questioning the value or purpose of their attendance.
On Tuesday, ODM MPs including Makadara lawmaker George Aladwa led prayers for Raila ahead of the big day on Saturday, as they exuded confidence in his victory.
Raila, who has been touted as the favourite to clinch the AUC seat, will come up against Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar for the seat.
The ODM leader, however, faces a tough challenge, as winning the seat requires securing a two-thirds majority vote from the 55 AU member states—at least 33 votes.
There is also the possibility of the election proceeding to subsequent rounds if no candidate attains the required majority.
A victory for the ODM leader in the elections would be a significant diplomatic and political win for both President Ruto and, naturally, Raila himself.
