Jubilee Party's Secretary-General, Jeremiah Kioni, has hinted at the possibility of President William Ruto securing a second term with coordinated efforts from his inner circle.
Speaking on NTV on February 24, Kioni stated that the divisions within the opposition could work in Ruto's favour.
He noted that internal rifts within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could significantly boost Ruto’s chances of re-election if he successfully consolidates his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
"If this confusion within the opposition continues, it will pave the way for President Ruto to secure another five years in government," Kioni said.
Confirming the looming divisions within the official opposition parties, Kioni stated that there are two factions within ODM: one that supports the government and another that remains firmly in opposition.
"You can see two groups in ODM. One side is supporting the current regime even as we approach 2027, while the other is completely at variance with that," Kioni said.
President Ruto's endorsement of Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union (AU) chairperson position has caused further confusion within ODM. One faction has chosen to engage in a broad-based friendly agreement with the government, while the other remains in opposition.
According to Kioni, this division gives Ruto a strong chance of securing another five-year term if he capitalises on the situation.
However, he noted that Ruto must also manage internal divisions within the UDA party, where factions are emerging. One group remains loyal to the government, while another backs Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
"In UDA, there is Team A, which is aligned with the government, and Team B, which has shifted towards Gachagua. UDA B is attempting to play opposition politics while still being in government," Kioni claimed.
A section of ODM members has openly expressed support for Ruto’s leadership, positioning him favourably for re-election in 2027. However, ODM Deputy party leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati has dismissed these claims, insisting that the party remains united in its stance.
Kioni's remarks on the ongoing divisions within the two major political parties in Kenya could signal potential shifts in the country's political landscape ahead of the next general election.
