Ruto Woos Raila Supporters as He Signals 2027 Election Pact
President William Ruto has hinted at potential future collaboration with Raila Odinga in the upcoming General Election, marking the clearest sign yet of such an alliance.
During the commencement of his four-day tour of Nyanza counties in Migori on Wednesday, President Ruto urged the public to pay attention to these signs. However, he emphasized that his primary focus remains on development before engaging in any political discourse.
This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Odinga’s close allies, who accompanied the President on his tour. They encouraged him to maintain cooperation with ODM leaders as they prepare for a significant reunion in 2027.
President Ruto highlighted his longstanding relationship with Mr. Odinga, referring to him as a respected reformist who has championed democracy. He revealed that the East African Community (EAC) states have agreed to support Mr. Odinga for the African Union Commission seat.
The President advised the public to remain patient as there would be future announcements. For now, he stressed the importance of focusing on development, with major political plans to be unveiled later.
Addressing supporters at Posta Grounds, President Ruto urged Mr. Odinga’s followers to support a broad-based government, describing it as the key to uniting Kenyans.
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A subtle competition emerged between President Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as they vied for the attention of Mr. Odinga’s supporters, each praising the ODM leader with various accolades.
President Ruto reiterated his stance against tribalism while emphasizing his support for Mr. Odinga’s bid for the continental seat. Deputy President Gachagua also underscored his role in supporting Mr. Odinga’s candidacy.
Deputy President Gachagua referenced his recent support for Raila, describing him as experienced and a statesman. He reaffirmed the ongoing collaboration for development, with Mr. Odinga leading on the African stage.
The President and his deputy were joined by Cabinet Secretaries Opiyo Wandayi (Energy and Petroleum), John Mbadi (National Treasury), and other top officials, including Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and Trade counterpart Alfred Kombudo.
In stark contrast to previous visits, the President was warmly welcomed by leaders from Mr. Odinga’s camp, including governors from Migori, Homa Bay, Siaya, and Kisii, as well as other prominent regional leaders.
President Ruto declared that he had included opposition members in his government to eliminate tribalism and divisive politics.
He showcased his new Cabinet appointees, much to the crowd’s approval.
Mr. Mbadi urged the Nyanza region to continue supporting the current government, likening the relationship to finding a good neighbor.
Mr. Wandayi noted that the President’s warm reception was a clear indication that the region was ready to collaborate with him.
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Mr. Orengo expressed gratitude to the President for the various appointments and Mr. Odinga’s endorsement.
Mr. Ayacko, Ms. Wanga, and Mr. Arati reminded the President of his roots as an ODM deputy party leader and assured him of a warm welcome should he ever feel frustrated in UDA.
President Ruto announced several development projects for the region, including Sh1.6 billion for connecting 19,000 homes to the national electricity grid in Migori, Sh300 million for the completion of the Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme, and Sh150 million for new landing sites.
He also pledged to collaborate with the Migori administration to enhance local rice production and improve farmers’ earnings.
Earlier, the President launched the Kegonga Cluster Water Project in Kuria and inspected the Lower Kuja irrigation project.
Local leaders requested further support, including the creation of Kuria County, additional appointments, and the completion of major infrastructure projects.
Mr. Oketch appealed to the President to consider creating a new county in the next boundary delimitation to provide more job opportunities for the youth in Kuria East and West.
Mr. Ayacko requested additional funding for the completion of the Migori stadium and the expansion of the Lichota Airstrip.
On Thursday, the President is set to visit Homa Bay County, where he will launch several projects.
Ruto Woos Raila Supporters as He Signals 2027 Election Pact
