Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is leaving his role as an African Union (AU) special envoy.
The opposition leader has served as AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa since October 20, 2018.
Moreover, chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, through a letter dated February 19, thanked Mr. Odinga for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors.
“Your role in this journey, Excellency, has been invaluable. Allow me to express my profound gratitude for accepting to serve in this role during the transition period, which has now come to a happy conclusion,” the letter read in part.
Raila Odinga in a rejoinder wrote to the African Union Chairperson saying he asked to be relieved of his duties due to the challenges to his “continued unavailability”.
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“During our meeting on the sidelines of the 2nd Dakar African Infrastructure Financing Summit in Dakar, Senegal about three weeks ago, I indicated the challenges to my continued availability for the role of AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa. In that regard, I welcome your quick action that will free me to pursue other pressing and urgent matters,” Odinga’s letter which was shared on twitter stated.
Thankful to the @_AfricanUnion. pic.twitter.com/MyPDKZXW0s
— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) February 23, 2023
Likewise, the opposition chief said being appointed as special envoy by the AU was an honour.
He also expressed pride in the work he had done towards the transformation of the NEPAD Agency to African Union Development Agency-NEPAD.
“It has been a great pleasure and honour serving our continent and our people and addressing Infrastructure development,” Odinga said, “I am proud to have made a contribution to the transformation of the NEPAD Agency to African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, among other contributions during my tenure.” He added.
Nonetheless, Moussa Faki Mahamat in his letter noted that Raila Odinga will remain a valuable person to the Africa Union.
“The African Union hopes to continue counting on your support for other possible assignments.” He said.