- Raila Odinga refutes reports that the government spent Ksh13 billion on his African Union Commission (AUC) bid.
- Claims government only facilitated his transport and that he did not live luxuriously.
- Some countries provided accommodation and food during his campaign travels.
- Expresses readiness to serve Africa and Kenya and promises to announce his next steps soon.
- President Ruto praises Raila’s campaign efforts and insists his candidacy united Kenya.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has dismissed claims that the Kenyan government spent Ksh13 billion on his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Speaking at State House, Mombasa, on Monday, February 24, 2025, Raila criticized the reports, questioning the figures being quoted.
“I have seen billions being quoted, someone is talking about Ksh13 billion spent on Raila’s campaigns. I do not know which world those guys live in or whether they know what a billion means. A billion to do what?” Raila wondered.
He clarified that the government only facilitated his transport during the campaign and insisted that he did not live a lavish lifestyle while seeking support from African leaders. He also revealed that some host countries offered him accommodation and food, reducing the financial burden.
“The money that was spent was the money that was necessary just to hire transport to travel around, and we were not living luxuriously. We were eating whatever was provided to us,” he explained.
Raila also acknowledged the role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noting that it had been fully involved in his campaign.
Raila Hints at Future Plans
Despite his AUC election loss to Djibouti’s candidate, Raila remains open to serving Africa and Kenya in any capacity.
“I am available to help the continent of Africa, but more importantly, I am also available for Kenya. I will consult widely and in due course announce the way forward shortly. Watch this space, I will be talking again,” Raila stated.
President Ruto Commends Raila’s Candidacy
At the same event, President William Ruto praised Raila for his spirited campaign and emphasized that his candidature had united Kenya across the political divide.
“I am very proud that Raila Odinga put forth a formidable, serious candidature across the African continent. He was available for all the appointments that were made for him. His candidature brought all Kenyans together from different parts of the political divide,” Ruto said.
The president further noted that despite Raila’s defeat, Kenya remains committed to contributing to Africa’s development and Agenda 2063.
