Wiper Senator Dan Maanzo Claims Raila's AUC Campaign Is Big Joke: "We Shall Blame Ruto"

• Makueni senator Dan Maanzo raised concerns over Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson, noting a weak campaign effort
• Maanzo expressed support for Raila but criticised the lack of strong diplomatic backing during the launch of his AUC campaign
• The senator pointed out the absence of key leaders and diplomats at the campaign's launch, suggesting it signalled a poorly managed effort
• Maanzo warned that if Raila loses the bid, President William Ruto will be blamed for not taking the campaign seriously enough

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Makueni senator Dan Maanzo has raised concerns about Azimio leader Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.

The lawmaker suggested that the veteran politican's campaign for the continental seat is taking the duty seriously.

At a church event, Maanzo expressed his support for the former prime minister’s efforts but pointed out significant issues with the campaign.

Maanzo observed that Raila's campaign lacks the backing needed to secure the prestigious AUC role.

He noted that during the launch of his bid at the State House Nairobi, there was minimal representation from key diplomatic figures.

"We all wish Raila well at the African Union. However, the way this campaign is being run is like a game. If Raila were receiving a proper campaign, we would have seen presidents here on the launch day, at least 30; we would see Arabs here, we would see French-speaking people. In diplomatic language, if a minister is being used, it means the president is telling you that you have failed," the senator said.

Who will be blamed if Raila loses

The senator warned that if Raila fails to secure the AUC chairperson role, President William Ruto will bear the blame.

He accused Ruto and his allies of not putting enough effort into the campaign, implying that Raila was being misled.

"So, we wish Raila well, but woe unto Ruto if Raila doesn’t make it to the African Union. We will blame you, Ruto, because you are campaigning like a joke. It’s as if you’re playing games with Raila Odinga," Maanzo added.

Ruto asks Kenyans to support Raila

On Saturday, August 24, Ruto urged Kenyans to rally behind the ODM leader in his quest to become the next AUC chairperson.

Speaking in Kakamega, the president observed that the longstanding Kenyan opposition leader merits to be at the helm of the African Union secretariat, thus the need for compatriots to bless his candidature.

Ruto noted that Raila's win in the race would connote Kenya's strides and enhance Kenya's outlook on the international stage.

Meanwhile, the ODM leader announced he would be taking a break from local politics to focus on his campaign for the continental job.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.