Ruto and Raila Allies Hint at 2027 Coalition as Key ODM Leaders Join Kenya Kwanza Cabinet
President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) hint at a potential merger or coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
This follows the appointment of key opposition figures into the Kenya Kwanza cabinet.
During a thanksgiving ceremony for Cooperatives and MSME Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, attended by President Ruto, leaders from both parties she expressed willingness to unite for the nation’s benefit.
ODM deputy party leaders Wycliffe Oparanya and Ali Hassan Joho, along with Chairman John Mbadi, National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, and party official Beatrice Asukul Moe have joined Ruto’s cabinet, subsequently stepping down from their ODM roles.
President Ruto emphasized that the coalition between Kenya Kwanza and ODM is intended to be long-term, noting the alignment between the two parties’ manifestos, particularly on issues like Universal Health Coverage and housing.
Ruto highlighted his familiarity with ODM, having previously served as its deputy leader, and thanked Raila Odinga for collaborating for national interests, stressing that unity and development are paramount.
ODM deputy leader Simba Arati voiced readiness to work with President Ruto to stabilize the country. She urged ODM appointees in Ruto’s cabinet to perform well in their roles, ensuring a strong foundation for the next election.
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Arati also mentioned that the Western and Nyanza regions are positioning themselves for the presidency after Ruto’s term, suggesting it’s time for the Kisii, Luos, and Luhya communities to have a chance.
Siaya Governor James Orengo reflected on the need for unity during national crises, like in 2007, and expressed optimism about Kenya’s future under the current trajectory.
He commended Ruto for including ODM members in his government without demanding party allegiance.
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma echoed support for unity, suggesting that collaboration with President Ruto could lead to further national progress.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi praised President Ruto’s leadership, noting that including opposition leaders marks a new chapter in Kenya’s governance and highlights the importance of national unity.
Wycliffe Oparanya mentioned his long-standing relationship with President Ruto, stating that their partnership has now fully connected, and he pledged to serve diligently.
Some ODM leaders, like Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, apologized to Ruto for campaign insults, clarifying that they were made in the heat of the moment.
He also urged Kenya Kwanza leaders to extend similar apologies to Raila Odinga.
Despite these developments, Junet maintained that there’s no formal coalition between ODM and UDA, likening the situation to a “come-we-stay” arrangement, where some leaders have joined the government while others remain in opposition for oversight.
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ODM deputy leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi reaffirmed that ODM remains the minority party in the National Assembly but will support Ruto when he acts in the national interest while holding him accountable when necessary.
President Ruto accepted the apologies, stressing the importance of forgiveness for national cohesion, and reiterated his support for Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission chairmanship bid, viewing it as an achievement for Kenya as a whole.
The event, attended by governors from Bungoma, Vihiga, Uasin Gishu, Busia, Kisumu, and Kisii, as well as legislators from various political affiliations, underscored the growing calls for unity between UDA and ODM.
Ruto and Raila Allies Hint at 2027 Coalition as Key ODM Leaders Join Kenya Kwanza Cabinet
