A section of clergy leading prayers for Odinga in Eldoret on February 14, 2025/MATHEWS NDANYIA section of clergy and residents of Eldoret have held prayers for AUC chairman candidate Raila Odinga ahead of tomorrow's elections in Addis Ethiopia.
The clergymen led the prayers held at Langas Estate, where they asked for God’s intervention to help Odinga win the seat.
One by one they called out the African countries, urging them to support Odinga’s bid, arguing that he was best to lead the continent.
Father Joseph Oluoch of the Legio Maria Church and Chrispine Raphael, who led the prayers, said they had decided to hold the event because they believe Odinga had already played a great role in the growth of democracy in Kenya and other African nations.
“We are to ask God to help Odinga win because we believe we can only succeed," said Oluoch.
Father Oluoch said they believe Odinga has the capacity to lead and unite Africa, apart from dealing with the challenges on the continent, including wars in countries like the DR Congo.
“We have also prayed for DR Congo to experience peace, and we know that if Odinga wins, he has the necessary capacity to help mediate for peace and unity," said Oluoch.
The clergymen argued that Raila is also a seasoned leader with vast knowledge about Africa. The clergymen also prayed for President William Ruto and praised him for his support and campaign for Raila to win the seat.
A section of clergy leading prayers for Odinga in Eldoret on February 14, 2025/MATHEWS NDANYI
“We may have our differences, but Odinga is our son, and he has done a lot for our country. Let's all stand behind Odinga so that he wins," Raphael said.
A section of ODM supporters also attended the event and said they wish Odinga well.
"However, just in case he loses during the AUC polls, we will all welcome him as a great patriot who went out there to fight for Kenya and Africa," said one of the ODM youth.
They vowed that they would travel to Nairobi to welcome Raila back home with or without victory.
“We will be there to embrace him with love should he win or lose," he said.
Elsewhere, Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii also joined other leaders in wishing Odinga well during the AUC polls.
“We pray for Odinga to win and help lead Africa at that level because he has the necessary vision and qualities to lead Africa," said Raphael.