Ruto allies challenge Raila to support government agenda

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

A section of Kenya Kwanza lawmakers have welcomed Raila Odinga's bid for AU Commission chairperson but said he will earn their support on condition that he supports Kenya Kwanza government agenda.

The leaders said that the President William Ruto-led government is pushing for Raila's candidature and he must therefore support Kenya Kwanza reforms and projects.

Speaking during a funds drive for Kurgung Boy's tuition block project on Saturday, the leaders who accompanied Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Nandi warned opposition leaders against criticising government projects.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei said Raila needs the help of President Ruto to secure the AU job and he should cease from attacking his administration.

"The president will play a critical role to have Raila elected as the chair for the African Union Commission but that will not be possible when Raila himself has not denounced his usual fights against the government," he said.

Kesses MP Julius Rutto reiterated that the AU position is ideal for the opposition leader and they expect the ODM leaders to stop causing chaos for the sake of peace and a conducive political environment for the Kenya Kwanza government to deliver on its mandate to Kenyans.

"Raila has been in politics long enough to call it a day and focus on African issues. We want him to give President Ruto's government a break and engage with AU matters that Kenya also stands to benefit," said Rutto.

Lawmakers who accompanied DP Gachagua during two events in Nandi county included the National Assembly Leader of Majority Kimani Ichung'wa and Roads Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

Ichung'wa assured that the government is on the right course as President Ruto strives to stabilise the economy and lower the cost of living.

"We passed the affordable Housing Bill that will go a long way in creating employment for the youths in the country. It's among the government projects that will take Kenya to greater heights under the leadership of President Ruto," he said.