Raila taps Joho, Oparanya to lead ODM if he gets AU Commission job

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has picked former Governors Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya to lead the political outfit should he succeed in his bid to become the next Africa Union Commission Chairperson.

Mr. Odinga, speaking on Thursday during an ODM recruitment rally in Wajir County, intimated that the two leaders are the men for the job in case the AUC job forces him to exit the Kenyan political space.

He exuded confidence in the two deputy party leaders saying they have what it takes to unite the opposition outfit and its people.

“I am here with Governor Oparanya and Hassan Joho; vinara wa ODM. You see these two people, they will unite together. ODM ni chama ambacho kiko na msingi kamili bila kusambaratika,” he said.

“A party is not a person but the members and leaders. I am confident that these two will be able to lead the party effectively. Si wanatosha?” He posed amid cheers from the crowd.

The ODM chief, who also doubles up as the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party leader, further reassured his supporters that he would continue to offer advice to the pair even after he clinches the AUC job.

“They will continue to conduct the affairs of the party even if I am in Addis Ababa. If they want advice, I will be ready to advise them. ODM will remain intact,” he stated.

Mr. Odinga's succession talks have hit headlines in the past few weeks after the former premiere announced his AUC bid, with many leaders in the opposition camp throwing their hats in the ring to lead the party.

On Wednesday, he allayed fears that the AUC job will block him from actively participating in Kenya’s politics.

Former Kakamega Governor Oparanya has drummed up support for his consideration citing his extensive experience in politics.

Speaking in Butere Constituency on Saturday, he confidently asserted his readiness to lead the party in the absence of Mr. Odinga.

"In the event, Baba heads to Addis Ababa and secures the presidency of over 50 nations, which could potentially happen by next February, we will have ample time to prepare. I am prepared to seize this opportunity and lead ODM," stated Oparanya.