The leaders emphasized that while there is growing excitement over the prospect of Raila securing this prestigious role, it is premature to celebrate.
Speaking during a press conference in Kisumu on Friday, September 13, Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga made it clear that Raila Odinga’s victory is not guaranteed. "It is too early to celebrate because the process is not yet concluded, and we do not know the outcome," she stated.
Ruth Odinga, who is also a close relative of Raila, emphasized that the community’s excitement, although understandable, should not turn into premature celebrations.
Instead, she urged members of the Luo community to offer their unwavering support by praying for Raila as he continues to vie for the top position at the AU.
Kisumu County Deputy Governor Mathews Owili echoed these sentiments, underscoring the need for caution. "We know there is excitement, but we would like to urge our people to remain calm and avoid jumping to conclusions. We want to urge sobriety in this situation," Owili said.
Both Ruth Odinga and Mathews Owili highlighted that since Kenyan citizens are not involved in the voting process for the AUC chair, their best way of supporting Raila is through prayer.
"We do not have a direct role in the decision-making process, so we should pray for him to succeed," Ruth Odinga added.
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron also called for unity and patience, pointing out that celebrations should only take place if and when Raila secures the position.
"The outcome is still pending. We should focus our efforts on praying for him rather than celebrating too early," Oron said.
During the same press conference, the Kisumu County ODM leadership endorsed Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o as the interim party leader. The leaders unanimously agreed that Prof. Nyong’o, as the party's pioneer Secretary General, is best suited to guide the party during this period. His history of exemplary service and dedication to ODM was highlighted as a reason for the endorsement.
"As the founding Secretary General of ODM, Prof. Nyong’o has a wealth of experience and a proven track record. We believe he is the right person to take the party forward," said Kisumu County ODM Chairperson Paul Akeyo.
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron, Kisumu MCA Ruth Odinga, Assembly Majority Whip Seth Kanga, and other ODM officials were present at the press conference to show their support for Nyong’o’s appointment.
The message from ODM officials is clear—while there may be excitement surrounding Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Commission chair, it is crucial to remain focused on the bigger picture.
The leaders urged their supporters to refrain from early celebrations and instead pray for Raila’s success. With the outcome of the election still undecided, they believe prayers and patience are the best ways to support his journey to the AUC chair.
The call for caution comes at a critical time, with Raila’s supporters hopeful that his leadership could make a significant impact on the African continent. However, ODM leaders believe it is important to maintain a measured approach as the process unfolds.
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