Raila Odinga
African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Raila Odinga comes to the rescue of African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina
Statement by Raila Odinga
I have followed with very keen interest the disturbing developments at the African Development Bank, which emanated from attempts to derail and disrupt the premier Pan-African institution at a time Africa and the world was focused on addressing the challenges posed by 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 whole saga began when a whistleblower made allegations of violations of procurement. contract issuance and recruitment procedures.
These allegations were promptly and thoroughly investigated by the Executive Board through its relevant committee and a determination made that they were baseless.
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.
We reject this attempt to operate outside the laws governing the operations of the bank if not checked, these maneuvers 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, among them being the historic achievement of raising its capital from $98 billion to $208 billion in 2020.
President Adesina has prioritized Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the Continent’s quest for transformation particularly through investment in Agriculture, Infrastructure Development and Continental Integration, among other areas that are dear to us. Furthermore, the Bank has been assessed and awarded a triple A. (AAA), rating by all major global rating institutions.
We support those leaders in Africa and around the world who have spoken up in support of President Adesina’s leadership.
We have faith in him as a proven and experienced leader who is Prioritizing Africa’s development and who has proved his ability to guide the Bank effectively and honorably during this critical time for Africa. Mr. Adesina has proved his deep belief in lifting Africans out of poverty through a deep understanding of development issues and economic and political reform.
We urge him to relentlessly pursue the goals set out in his vision and which are in line with our aspirations as a people and a Continent. We further urge those who have misguided agendas to cease and desist. This is the time to stabilize AfDB, not destabilize it.
H.E, RAILA ODINGA; EGH;
AU HIGH REPRESENTATIVE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA.
