A section of MPs affiliated to Jubilee Party have requested NASA Leader Raila Odinga to quit politics after being appointed to the Africa Union.The MP’s urged Odinga to concentrate on his new role as the High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa.
The Legislators made the request on Sunday during a Fundraising function in Kesses Constituency, Nandi County, stating that Mr. Odinga’s new job is quite demanding and would only deliver if he distanced himself from Local Politics.
Those Championing the agenda to have the former Prime Minister retire from active politics are; Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichungwa, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, Oscar Sudi of Kapsaretamong others.
“Because he has a bigger job in the whole of Africa, he should now leave local politics to us,” said Nyoro.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, who is among the 18 MP’s spearheading the idea stated that “The kind of job Raila has been given in South Africa doesn’t allow him to participate in politics, he should leave politics to us.”
This comes days after Odinga was appointed as the the High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, by AU Chairperson Moussa Mahamat during the 54th Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kakamega County.
In a statement, Mahamat said the ODM leader would work to support and strengthen the efforts of the Commission’s relevant departments.
In a statement on Saturday, Mahamat said the High Representative will work to support and strengthen the efforts of the Commission’s relevant departments.
“This decision is part of the African Union’s drive to expedite the integration of the continent through infrastructure, in order to promote economic growth and sustainable development,” Mahamat said.
Raila’s mandate includes mobilising further political support from member states and the regional economic communities and facilitating greater ownership by all concerned stakeholders on the continent.
“He will also support the Commission and NEPAD initiatives to encourage increased commitment from development partners,” Mahamat said.