Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has spent approximately Ksh 350,000 on an advertisement to wish former Prime Minister Raila Odinga success ahead of the African Union Commission (AUC) elections set for Saturday, February 15, 2025.
In a statement dated Wednesday in one of the local dailies, February 12, Lusaka penned a lengthy message conveying his best wishes for Odinga in the upcoming elections.
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“As you stand on the threshold of an extraordinary opportunity to serve as the next Chairperson of the African Union, I extend my heartfelt goodwill and best wishes for your journey ahead. Africa has long looked to visionary leaders like you to help guide it towards a future that is prosperous, united, and at peace.
Your life’s work, defined by unwavering dedication to the betterment of our continent, has positioned you not only as a leader but as a symbol of hope, resilience, and transformative change,” the statement read.
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Lusaka Spends Large Sum to Praise Raila’s AUC Candidature
Lusaka emphasized that Odinga’s significant contributions on both national and continental levels reflect his unwavering belief in Africa’s potential.
His advocacy for democracy, human rights, and social justice, along with his push for inclusive growth and regional integration, illustrates his vision for an Africa that thrives through collective effort—an inspiring perspective for millions.
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“Your leadership has always been driven by a deep sense of service and a commitment to the values that unite us as one people,” the statement continued.
Also Read: Revealed: Why Ruto Chose Raila for AUC Chairmanship
Lusaka also expressed confidence in Odinga’s ability to win the African Union Commission (AUC) elections, citing his strong track record.
“As you pursue the esteemed position of Chairperson of the African Union, the challenges ahead will undoubtedly be formidable.
However, your experience, wisdom, and capacity to unite diverse perspectives are the qualities that will enable you to tackle these challenges. Together, we can create an Africa that speaks with one voice, transcends its divisions, and stands proudly on the global stage,” the statement added.
Kenyans React to Bungoma Governor’s Actions
The advertisement by the Governor elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans.
Stephen Mutoro, Secretary General of the Consumers Federation of Kenya, criticized Lusaka’s decision, calling it a waste of public funds.
“This is primitive, backward, and a raw wastage of public funds. You could have simply placed a call to Raila Odinga. Remember, the cost of this unnecessary ad could have been used to fuel the West Kenya tractors to repair our impassable murram roads,” Mutoro stated.
Another social media user, Sam Masika, expressed his frustration: “Lusaka has never had the interests of the people of Bungoma at heart. This is just selfishness disguised as leadership. What is the need for this? Is it personal money?”
Ibrahim Mahmoud added, “The people of Bungoma deserve everything that is happening to them. How did they elect this guy again?”
AUC Elections
The African Union Commission (AUC) elections are set to take place during the African Union Summit in February 2025.
Also Read: Explained: Step by Step Process of How AUC Voting Will be Conducted
The elections for the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson will be held on February 15-16, while the elections for the six Commissioners will occur on February 12-13.
Among the candidates for the Chairperson position are Foreign Affairs Minister from Djibouti Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga from Kenya, and Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar.
For the Deputy Chairperson position, the candidates include Salah Francis and Selma Malika from Algeria, Mohamed Ahmed Fathi and Hanan Morsy from Egypt, Najat M. Elhajjaji from Libya, and Latifa Akharbach from Morocco.
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