Raila Explains Billions Govt Spent on AU Campaign

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has explained how the government spent state funds on his Africa Union Chairmanship campaigns across Africa.

Speaking in Mombasa on Monday, February 24, Raila denied that the government spent Ksh13 billion on the whole campaign.

According to Raila, the government only spent money that was necessary, adding that they did not splurge on anything.

“I have seen that somebody is talking about Ksh13 billion that was spent in the campaign. I don’t know which world these guys live in and whether they know what a billion means,”

“The money that was spent was money that was necessary. It was used just to hire transport to travel around, and we were not living luxuriously. We were eating whatever was given to us wherever we went to. Many countries were generous and they provided us with accommodation,” said Raila.

AUC Elections Live Updates, Voting and Results — President William Ruto with AUC Chairperson Candidate Raila Odinga ahead of the AUC chair elections. PHOTO/PCS

Also Read: Raila Odinga’s Next Chapter: Charting a New Course for Kenya’s Politics

Further, he said that various ministries including the ministry of foreign affairs provided him with round the clock assistance and made appointments when he need to meet various heads of states across the continent.

“But the government only gave what was required and the ministry of foreign affairs was available 24/7 and the other government departments made appointments for me to meet leaders across the continent, ” added Raila.

Also Read: Details of Ruto-Raila AU Meeting

Raila Hits at Next Political Move

On his next political move, the Azimio leader said that was available to serve Africa and Kenya in other capacities.

Moreover, he added that he had plans to hold discussions with his political friends and supporters, and would be issuing the way forward soon.

“We are available to help the continent of Africa but more importantly, we are also available for Kenya. Back home here I am going to meet with my friends and supporters.

“I am going to consult widely about what is going on and in due course, we are going to announce our way forward,” he said.

President William Ruto also affirmed his support for Raila, reiterating that Kenya had the best candidate for the AU chairmanship race.

Raila lost the seat to Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Foreign Affairs Minister for Djibouti, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union on February 15, 2025.

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