‘Those with misguided agendas should cease and desist’ — AU’s Raila Odinga backs Adesina

Raila Odinga, high representative for infrastructure development at the African Union, has expressed support for Akinwumi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank (AfDB) president.

In a statement on Thursday, Odinga said the allegations levelled against Adesina are “attempts to derail and disrupt” the institution at a time the world is focused on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Available information points to some elements bent on circumventing the clearly articulated and well-tested governance and procedures by the bank.”

The ethics committee of the AfDB board has absolved Adesina of allegations of favouritism submitted by whistleblowers.

However, the US government expressed dissatisfaction at the committee’s report and requested for a fresh, independent probe into the allegations.

“However, a few individuals who were not satisfied by the board’s findings and determination decided to pursue the issue outside the bank’s processes and procedures by calling for an independent inquiry,” he said.

“We reject this attempt to operate outside the law and which if not checked can destabilize a well-functioning institution at a time the continent needs it the most.

“Under the leadership of President Akinwumi Adesina, the AfDB has made commendable strides.”

Odinga, who was the leader of Kenya’s opposition party between 2013 and January 2018, advised those who “have misguided agendas to cease and desist” saying “this is the time to stabilise AfDB, not destabilise it”.

Several stakeholders including President Muhammadu Buhari and 15 former African presidents have also expressed support for Adesina.

The AfDB board, on Friday, said it has agreed to an independent review of the committee’s report that exonerated Adesina.