Kenyans Reacts to Raila Odinga’s Use of French in AUC Campaign

Raila Odinga’s bid for the Chairperson position at the African Union Commission (AUC) has captured significant attention in Kenya, particularly after his recent speech in French.

This move has led to a range of reactions from Kenyans, who have taken to social media to express their thoughts.

During his campaign, Odinga delivered a speech in French that outlined his vision for Africa. He highlighted several key points, such as the need for greater unity among African countries, the importance of allowing visa-free travel within Africa, the removal of trade barriers, and empowering the continent’s youth.

He emphasized his dedication to these goals, describing himself as “made in Eastern Africa for Africa” and asserting, “My heart is ready, my hands are steady.”

Odinga’s use of French was meant to demonstrate his readiness and capability to lead the African Union.

However, his decision to speak in French quickly became a topic of discussion among Kenyans online. The reactions were varied, with a blend of humor and skepticism dominating the conversation.

Some Kenyans found the situation amusing. One commenter jokingly suggested that Odinga could speak “55 languages at once without blinking,”

Another user remarked, “Dudes so ancient even the French come out in hieroglyph,” playfully mocking the impression that Odinga’s French might sound outdated.

Humor continued to be a theme, with some users anticipating a flood of memes if Odinga were to lose the bid for the position. One comment reflected this sentiment, saying, 

“Huyu asijaribu kushindwa... hizo meme zinamngoja huku,” implying that a loss might lead to a wave of internet memes about the outcome.

On the other hand, there were also more serious and critical responses. Some users expressed doubt about the effectiveness of Odinga’s French, with one comment noting, “shida ni eti hata wafaransa hawamsii kitu anabanja.” 

This comment suggested that even native French speakers might not fully understand or appreciate Odinga’s use of the language.

These mixed reactions shows how Kenyans are actively engaging with and scrutinizing their leaders, particularly in the context of high-profile international roles. 

While Odinga’s campaign continues, public sentiment remains divided. His use of French has sparked both support and criticism, reflecting the complex ways in which his candidacy is being perceived.