Editor's Review

"If he gets it, we’re fine. If he doesn’t, we’re still fine. So at this point, all we can say is: May thy will be done."

Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang'wa has expressed that the political landscape would remain the same regardless of the outcome of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship bid. 

In a statement on Thursday, February 13, Thang'wa noted that he had analyzed the possible consequences of Raila securing the position or not. 

He stated that the situation was evenly poised, noting that there would be no major disruptions either way.

"I’ve carefully analyzed & scrutinized the political implications of Baba securing the AUC chairmanship, or not. 

"I’ve weighed all the pros and cons, including the impact on 'iTUNGATi.' And from where I sit, the scale is finely balanced. If he gets it, we’re fine. If he doesn’t, we’re still fine. So at this point, all we can say is: May thy will be done," he said.

File image of Karungo Wa Thang'wa

This comes a month after Raila disclosed that he will shift his focus to addressing domestic issues if he loses the AUC elections.

Speaking on Saturday, January 11, in Siaya County, Raila affirmed that he has no plans to step away from national matters if his bid is unsuccessful. 

He, however, stated that a win would benefit the country as his role would involve engaging in initiatives that contribute positively to Kenya.

"When the vote has been cast, it is when we will know whether I have won or not. If we win, it is okay, and even if we don't win, there is nothing wrong. If I do not win, I will be going nowhere.

"If I win, it is good because I will work there and do many things that will help us here. If I lose, will I not just be here with you and do everything together as a community?" he posed.

On Wednesday, February 12, Raila wrapped up his campaign in Burundi where he met President Evariste Ndayishimiye.

Following the meeting, he headed to Addis Ababa where the AUC chairman elections will take place on Saturday, February 15.

“I concluded my campaign activities in Bujumbura, Burundi, today. I thank H.E. President Evariste Ndayishimiye for honouring me with a warm reception. 

"As I head to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the final stretch, I solemnly thank you all for your unwavering support and prayers throughout the journey of my candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairmanship," he said.

File image of AUC elections candidates Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti), Raila Odinga and Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar)