President William Ruto has explained his decision to back ODM leader Raila Odinga for the African Union Commission chairperson job.
Speaking on Tuesday during the Homa Bay International Investment Conference, Ruto said he deliberately chose to promote Raila for the AUC position since he leads an inclusive government with no losers.
“There are things I told you and you thought it was a joke. It was not a joke. I told you we had arrangements and no one would be a loser in this thing (presidential election). We made arrangements so that everyone gets something as we move forward,” Ruto said.
The Head of State added that he wanted a win-win outcome for everyone, even those in the opposition who felt left out.
“We want to unify the country. We want to work together towards the unity of Kenya. That is important to all of us. There is space for all of us in Kenya. You do not win by making others lose. We want a win-win outcome for all of us. We all want to be winners because those in the opposition (and) those in government must mean well for Kenya,” Ruto remarked.
This comes a day after President Ruto and Raila met with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni at his country home in Uganda.
The three discussed matters between Kenya and Uganda and also discussed Raila’s candidacy in the AU.
“Several days ago, I accepted an invitation from President Kaguta Museveni of Uganda for a joint meeting with President William Ruto today to discuss the deepening of regional integration within the East African Community.
“Crucially, at the urging of President Museveni, we also discussed my candidacy for Chairperson of the African Union Commission,” Raila said in a statement on Monday night.
The former Prime Minister announced his candidature on February 15 during a joint press conference with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Also Read: Details Of President Ruto’s Meeting With Raila And Museveni In Uganda (Photos)