Ugandan President Museveni endorses Raila for AUC top job, takes a jab at Djibouti's candidate in Nairobi speech
By Mwangi Maina |
As usual, Museveni veered off-topic, entertaining the audience of regional leaders and diplomats with his long-winded stories.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni didn't hold back during his appearance in Nairobi on Tuesday at Raila Odinga's campaign launch for the African Union Commission (AUC) top job.
With his trademark blend of humour and sharp African commentary, Museveni took a jab at Djibouti's candidate, stating, "A young man from Djibouti came to tell me he was their candidate. We had a chat, took some photos, and shared a cup of tea. But I told him straight—I'm going to Kenya to support Raila because he's the right man for this job."
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As usual, Museveni veered off-topic, entertaining the audience of regional leaders and diplomats with his long-winded stories.
"If you don't want to hear my stories, don't invite me," he quipped, drawing laughter.
His more than 30-minute speech meandered through topics like Samora Machel, the dynamics of poverty and wealth, and even threw in a few Kenyan greetings like "chamgei" and "atiriri."
Despite the detours, Museveni was unwavering in his endorsement of Raila, firmly committing Uganda's backing for the candidacy.
Museveni reminisced about Raila's father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, who had supported Jomo Kenyatta's vision for a unified government, and expressed his pleasure at seeing President Ruto and DP Gachagua united with Raila.
He made it clear that Raila wasn't in this for a job or personal gain, but because he's a true leader and a dedicated Pan-Africanist.
"He's not seeking a job or career advancement; he's a true leader," Museveni declared, to the approval of the audience.
However, Museveni didn't stop at praise; he also offered some pointed observations about Raila's team.
"I get intelligence reports," he said with a grin.
"There's this character called Babu. I always see Babu, Babu who is anti-NRM," he remarked, hinting at internal challenges within Raila's camp, all while continuing to amuse the audience with his characteristic storytelling.
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