Ruto: AUC job not just for Raila, it is for Kenya

Speaking during a church service in Dagoretti North, Nairobi County, Ruto urged the nation to rally behind Odinga's bid, stating that his victory will significantly benefit the nation.

"Remember our leader Raila Odinga as we wish him to be the AUC chairperson. That position is not his, it is for the continent and ours as a nation," Ruto noted.

He urged those scoffing at Odinga's bid to tone down their harsh sentiments against the long-time opposition leader and instead embrace unity in championing one of their own.

"You have not vied for the seat, you are not competing with him, why are you censuring him? Let us have goodwill for Kenyans," Ruto added.

Odinga, expressing confidence in winning the seat, has maintained that the contest is not a matter of life and death for him.

The political premier has stated that if he does not clinch the chairperson position, he is ready to return to proceed with activities back in Kenya.  

The elections to find the next occupant at the AU top job will take place in February as Chad's Moussa Faki, the current chairperson, will exit after his two-term tenure.

Odinga is facing Djibouti's Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar's Richard Randriamandrato.