Raila should honor his special AU job and retire from politics say MP Cheptumo

Opposition leader Raila Odinga should appreciate his African Union (AU) job and retire from Kenyan politics, Baringo North Member of Parliament (MP) William Cheptumo has said.

Cheptumo lauded President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto for endorsing and lobbying for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader to the position saying he really deserves it.

"Now that he has been elevated to the topmost leadership position Raila should take his time to concentrate on the African and international affairs and give zero attention to Kenya's politics" he said.

The MP was addressing mourners during burial of the late former Baringo North MP Zephaniah Chepkong'a, alias 'Akwelee' at his Ossen home on Saturday.

Present was County Deputy Governor Jacob Chepkwony, former Kenya Power Lighting Company (KPLC) Director Susan Chesyna and several former and current leaders.

Cheptumo said the new ODM leader's position is quite demanding, "and it has also come at the time when he should retire honorably from politics and just help in sharing to youngsters his lifetime experiences" he said.

The National Assembly Legal Affairs Committee chairperson said Raila is a respected public figure due to his long time political influence in the country and he has tried his luck for long time without success.

"I think Raila should now be the happiest man in the world to have landed such a noble reward even bigger than what he has been dreaming for and he should be contented with it" Cheptumo added.

He said his age no longer allows him to drive this country's political leadership and that he should down his tools and give chance to the upcoming young generation.

"That's the way to go even me when the time comes I will also have to salute and give in to my age" he said.

Raila landed his appointment on October 20 to represent African Union in matters peace and political oversight in entire African countries.

The Commission chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat said it was part of their expedition to integrate Africa through infrastructure.

“His mandate includes mobilizing further political support from Member States and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and facilitating greater ownership by all concerned stakeholders,” he said in a statement.

The new role will see Raila Odinga work to support and strengthen AU’s departments and those of the Planning and Coordinating Agency of New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).

The MP further urged security officers to beef up security across the porous borders of  Baringo north and south as candidates prepare to sit for the primary and secondary school examination.

-JOSEPH KANGOGO