UDA calls for continued cooperation with ODM despite Raila's loss
UDA party secretary general Omar Hassan addresses journalists at the party offices in Nairobi on September 19, 2024.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has called for continued cooperation between opposition leaders and the government even after ODM leader Raila Odinga lost in the African Union Commission chairmanship race.
Mr Odinga's loss to Djibouti's Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has drawn mixed reactions from Kenyans, with some blaming it on the President's stand regarding regional issues.
UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar said the government under President William Ruto did its part to ensure Mr Odinga secures the AUC top seat, but that luck was not on his side.
He stated that they accept the outcome of the Saturday contest, stressing on the need for Mr Odinga and President Ruto to continue working together for a united Kenya.
He was speaking at the Mkunguni Square in Lamu Old Town on Sunday during the homecoming rally of UDA Deputy Party Leader Issa Timamy, who is also the Lamu governor.
"President Ruto showed great courage, standing with Baba Raila Odinga during the campaigns for the AUC seat till the end. Unfortunately, luck was not on his side but we believe there is still another chance in future. We must remain in solidarity with President Ruto for the betterment of this country," said Mr Omar.
Selfish interests
While aiming at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, he condemned those attacking Kenya Kwanza government saying they harbour selfish interests of perpetrating divisive politics.
"Every time you stand on the podium, your politics are all about the mountain. Where do you place the rest of Kenya? And that's why we saw your selfish interests and opted to throw you out of government.
“We shall continue to spread the gospel of a united Kenya no matter what. Kenyans are brave and won't allow you to divide them based on selfish interests," said Mr Omar.
The East African Legislative Assembly (Eala) MP encouraged the youth to register for national identity cards in preparation for the 2027 General Election.
"Lamu and Northern Kenya as a whole has suffered years of marginalization. It was a whole headache for youth here to acquire IDs. But our President has waived all the unnecessary vettings," said Mr Omar.
On his part, Mr Timamy also lauded President Ruto for standing with Mr Odinga in the AUC campaigns up to the election.
Mr Timamy reiterated that there is still the need for Mr Odinga to work with the president to drive the country's development agenda forward.
Matuga MP Kassim Tandaza and Garsen MP Ali Wario also stated that even though Kenya did not succeed, it still came out strongly as many African countries still managed to back Raila's bid.
Raila lost to Djibouti's Mahmoud Ali Youssouf after a hotly contested race in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Saturday.