Mudavadi downplays Raila’s AU loss, defends Noordin Haji’s role

Speaking after the conclusion of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, Mudavadi emphasized that while the Kenyan government invested significant resources and effort into Odinga’s candidature, the outcome was never guaranteed.

“The African continent is bigger than any other individual,” Mudavadi stated, underscoring the unpredictable nature of AU elections. He acknowledged that Kenya had put its “best foot forward” in the campaign, which he described as both physically and emotionally draining.

Dr. Litha Musyimi-Ogana, a commissioner at the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), echoed Mudavadi’s sentiments, noting the inherent unpredictability of AU elections.

“I’ve worked at the AU for 20 years, and I can tell you it is never predictable who becomes the AU Chair. When Dlamini ran, the race was suspended because nobody got the two-thirds majority,” she said.

Mudavadi revealed that the campaign, which spanned nearly a year, involved extensive person-to-person engagements and significant financial investment.

“We’ll give you a figure in Nairobi, but you can imagine this is a process that has taken close to a year,” he said, highlighting the scale of Kenya’s efforts.

The Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary also defended the involvement of National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji in the lobbying process.

“He’s a Kenyan. Other countries also have their intelligence chiefs here,” Mudavadi explained, dismissing criticism of Haji’s role in the campaign.

As the AU summit concluded on Sunday, winners celebrated their victories, while losers, including Kenya, put on a brave face. Amb. Salma Haddadi, the newly elected Deputy Chair of the AUC, reflected on her tenure as Kenya’s ambassador during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting her experience and readiness for the new role.

Despite the setback, Mudavadi remained optimistic, reiterating that Kenya’s efforts were not in vain. “Life goes on,” he said, signaling the government’s resolve to continue engaging actively in continental affairs.

The loss has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with some questioning the government’s strategy and others appreciating the complexity of AU politics.