President William Ruto has extended an olive branch to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, pledging to collaborate on the government’s development initiatives.
The two leaders met at State House in Mombasa following Odinga’s recent defeat in the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson contest.
During their meeting, Ruto emphasized the importance of a united front, stating, “We close ranks and focus on what we can do for Kenya. With a broad-based government, we can accelerate our efforts to transform our nation.” He highlighted the need for collective action to address the challenges facing the country and expressed optimism about the partnership.
Ruto commended Odinga for his determination and resilience during the AUC chairperson race, recognizing him as a highly qualified candidate who represented Kenya on a continental platform. He also expressed gratitude to the African leaders who supported Odinga in his bid, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to contribute to Africa’s development agenda.
“We remain a united continent with an agenda for 2063, and Kenya will play a crucial role in fostering intra-Africa trade,” Ruto noted.
In response, Odinga assured President Ruto of his readiness to contribute to national progress. “I am back home and available to assist not only Kenya but also the continent of Africa. I will be consulting widely with my supporters and friends in the coming days,” he stated, hinting at his future political plans.
Odinga’s loss in the AUC election, which took place on February 15 in Addis Ababa, has not deterred his spirit. He promised to announce his next steps soon, encouraging his supporters to stay tuned for future developments.
As the two leaders embark on this collaborative journey, the nation watches closely for the impact of their partnership on Kenya’s growth and unity.
