The ODM Deputy Party Leader and Mombasa County Governor Ali Hassan Joho, congratulated his party leader and political mentor Raila Odinga, following his new job as an envoy.
The former prime minister was appointed African Union (AU) High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa on October 20.
President Uhuru Kenyatta made the announcement during this year's Mashujaa Day fete at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega, an announcement that was preceded by Namibian President Hage Geingob.
"Congratulations Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga on your appointment as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development," Joho said shortly after the appointment.
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The two-time governor who seeks to vie for the presidency in 2022, said it is a befitting recognition for Odinga and of the Kenyan people and Kenya's role in the future of Africa’s development.
Following the appointment, the former Kisauni lawmaker has been left with a huge task of holding ODM together alongside his fellow ODM party deputy leader Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya.
The two will provide leadership roles whenever Odinga is away on his diplomatic relations, with Joho being seen as Odinga's potential successor due to his ability to move crowds.
According to ODM Director of Elections Suna East MP Junet Mohammed, Odinga will be a busy person but will continue playing his roles as ODM party boss.
The future of Odinga in local politics however, remains unclear.
"I wish you success in this role and may it be a new chapter in connecting Africa through infrastructure," Joho told Odinga, in a brief statement.
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