Raila Odinga says cooperation with Ruto will end in 2027
In an interview with NTV at his Karen home on Sunday, Odinga said the current political cooperation is temporary and intended to provide national stability amid economic and social uncertainty.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Photo/Eastleigh Voice.
By Janet Philip
Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga has confirmed he will support President William Ruto only until 2027, quashing speculation that he might extend his cooperation with the head of state beyond the end of Ruto’s first term.
In an interview with NTV at his Karen home on Sunday, Odinga said the current political cooperation is temporary and intended to provide national stability amid economic and social uncertainty.
He emphasized that the partnership does not extend beyond the 2027 succession plan and warned against early campaign rhetoric, saying the focus should be on the government’s delivery of commitments.
“We have said that we are in the broad-based government until 2027. We did not say that we are going to work with UDA beyond 2027. Those are issues that we will discuss at the appropriate time, and the decision will be made by party members, not Raila Odinga alone,” he said.
Speculation over political realignment
Odinga’s remarks come amid speculation that his recent interactions with Ruto signal a serious political realignment. However, he was clear that any future direction would be determined through party structures.
His comments could stir political tension both within the ruling coalition and the opposition. Some observers interpret his statement as a signal that he might back a different presidential candidate in 2027 or adopt a new working relationship with Ruto.
Ruto’s camp continues to face pressure, especially from the youth, over unmet promises made during the 2022 election campaign.
Dialogue initiative is ‘for the people,’ not political cover
Odinga reiterated that his national dialogue initiative—widely referred to as the conclave—was launched to help address the country’s challenges, not to offer political protection to Ruto.
“I am happy that Kenyans are speaking about this conclave. This is not intended to help me or Ruto. It is a people’s process. Our problems will not be solved by chanting ‘Ruto must go.’ We must find a practical way of addressing these issues,” he said.
Avoids 2027 candidacy question
When asked about his potential candidacy in the 2027 presidential race, Odinga declined to answer directly, saying any such move would be made at the appropriate time.
He also reflected on his decision to work with Ruto, referencing protests in 2023.
“In 2023, we took to the streets to demand action on critical issues—electoral justice, the high cost of living and rampant corruption. The government responded with brutal force, and we lost about 70 lives. When we attempted to honor the victims, no judge allowed us to hold a public memorial. We were forced to conduct it quietly,” he recounted.
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