Raila Odinga: State did not spend Sh13 billion on my AUC campaigns
Odinga said the government only covered the necessary transport and that he did not indulge in any extravagance.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has refuted allegations that the government spent Sh13 billion on his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.
Speaking at State House in Mombasa, at the invitation of President William Ruto, Odinga dismissed the claims as unfounded and misleading.
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"I have heard some people claiming that the government spent Sh 13 billion for my campaign. Do the people saying this know the value of Sh1 billion?" questioned Odinga.
The Veteran Opposition leader then went on to add that the state only covered the necessary transport and that he did not indulge in any form of extravagance.
"Whilst my team and I strived to avoid any extravagant spending, some African nations were very generous and helped us survive during the campaign," he clarified.
Odinga's remarks come barely a week after Juja Member of Parliament George Koimburi was arrested reportedly in connection with his claims that the government had spent Sh13 billion on his bid.
Odinga also clarified that his decision to vie for the AUC position was entirely personal, debunking suggestions that he had been pressured or coerced into running.
"President Ruto only decided to support me after I had made the personal decision to vie for the post," said Odinga
He further expressed his gratitude to President Ruto for his unwavering support and efforts in rallying other African heads of state behind his candidacy.
"I want to sincerely thank everyone, especially Ruto for standing by me and mobilising other presidents across the continent to support me," he stated.
Looking ahead, Odinga revealed that he would consult with his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to determine his next political move following his defeat in the AUC elections.
He reassured his supporters that ODM remains committed to working with other parties to promote national unity and cohesion.
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