South Africa's opposition figure Malema urges Raila to concede defeat

Julius Malema, the vocal leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, has urged Azimio la Umoja One Kenya presidential candidate Raila Odinga to concede defeat. 

The outspoken opposition figure pleaded with Mr Odinga, who finished second in last week’s polls, to accept defeat and contain his supporters.

Addressing a joint press briefing of SA’s opposition parties on Wednesday, Mr Malema said it was a “shame” that Mr Odinga had lost presidential elections five times.

“I think it is time for him to throw in the towel and try a different candidate. Perhaps there could be a different outcome. This is the fifth time, it can’t be done beyond this, he needs to accept and move on,” he said.

He also called on Kenyans to accept the results, because “it is what it is”.

“With highly contested elections, and with such a very close outcome, you are likely to have people who are not satisfied. It comes with the nature of the game,” Mr Malema said.

“Kenyans must prioritise and protect Kenya and must protect democracy. They must love their country more than loving individuals.”