Mombasa Governor and ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir has called for political inclusivity despite Raila Odinga’s unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Speaking in Mombasa on Monday, February 24, Nassir insisted that despite Raila’s loss, his supporters deserve a place in government, not just the opposition.
"In the morning we were with Raila Odinga and President William Ruto and we agreed that whatever we wanted to achieve in Addis Ababa was not successful.
"We were not born to be tear-gassed because . we deserve to be in government," he said.
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Speaking of his return after failing to clinch the AUC seat, Raila remained upbeat, assuring his supporters that his campaign was a success.
"You should never worry at all. I said that if we win in Addis, we will have succeeded but if we lose, we will also have succeeded because I will come back home and do other things. So, we have succeeded because I have now come back home to join you," he said.
Raila emphasized his continued commitment to both Kenya and the continent, hinting at making a significant announcement soon regarding his next move.
"I am available to help the continent of Africa but more importantly, I am also available for Kenya. I will consult widely and in due course announce the way forward shortly. Watch this space, I will be talking again," he added.
On his part, President William Ruto commended Raila for the commitment he had towards the top continental job, noting that his candidature brought Kenyans together.
"I am very proud that Raila Odinga put forth a formidable, serious candidature across the African continent. He was available for all the appointments that were made for him. His candidature brought all Kenyans together from different parts of the political divide," he said.
