Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has spent roughly sh 350,000 on an advertising wishing former Prime Minister Raila Odinga well in the next African Union Commission (AUC) elections, which are set for February 15, 2025.
The statement, which appeared in a local daily on February 12, 2025, complimented Odinga’s leadership and highlighted his enormous achievements to Kenya and Africa.
Lusaka offered passionate support for Odinga’s aspiration to become the African Union’s next Chairperson, hailing him as a beacon of hope and resilience.
“Your life’s work has positioned you not only as a leader but as a symbol of hope, resilience, and transformative change,” Lusaka’s letter said.
He highlighted Odinga’s support for democracy, human rights, and regional integration, highlighting his faith in Africa’s potential.
The governor also expressed confidence that Odinga’s significant expertise and leadership will allow him to overcome obstacles and reconcile varied opinions from across the continent.
“Together, we can create an Africa that speaks with one voice,” the statement said.
However, Lusaka’s gesture elicited varied responses.
Some Kenyans, like Stephen Mutoro of the Consumers Federation of Kenya, denounced the expenditure as a waste of public dollars.
Others, such social media user Sam Masika, questioned Lusaka’s dedication to Bungoma residents, arguing that the monies could have been better spent on local development.
The AUC elections will be held during the African Union Summit, with Chairperson elections scheduled for February 15-16, 2025, and Commissioner elections on February 12-13.
Other contenders for Chairperson include Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato.
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