President William Ruto on Sunday pledged his support for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party, signalling a possible coalition with the ruling party, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the funeral service of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University in Bondo, Ruto said he was committed to preserving Raila’s political legacy by strengthening ODM’s structures and vision.
Ruto’s statement came amid speculation that some ODM leaders absorbed into government following the coalition pact with Raila could be dropped, as the government realigns.
“I want to tell you, my brothers in ODM, that in line with Baba’s desire to build the largest political party, we will support ODM in 2027. That is the only way we can ensure we have an effective government,” Ruto said.
The President praised political parties as vital pillars of democracy, maintaining that the party will definitely be an integral part of his government, just as was the case during his partnership with Raila.
“To ODM members, I want to assure you that ODM will either form the next government or be part of the next government,” Ruto added, in remarks interpreted as a sign of growing political realignment.
Adding that: “I will not allow anyone to break ODM, because Baba believed in political parties and built ODM over the past 20 years. We will support and keep the party united.”
Ruto on Raila Aide
Meanwhile, at the same service, Ruto announced that his government will offer a state job to Raila's long-time bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, in recognition of his loyalty and dedication to the late opposition leader.
ODM Members on Party Future
Ruto's remarks came at a time when ODM members themselves offered different opinions on the future of the party. One of those who spoke on the future of the party was Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who put to bed speculations on his stance on ODM following the passing of the party leader.
Sifuna, who has been the biggest subject of speculation since Raila passed away on Wednesday, October 15, openly declared that he would commit himself to keeping the party together, whatever it takes.
Additionally, ODM Deputy Party leader Abdulswamad Sherriff Nassir boldly declared during his speech that in 2027 ODM would "either be in government or be the government, but not in opposition".
On her part, Raila's sister, Ruth Odinga, issued a warning to ODM party members as she dismissed emerging factions within the political party following the party leader's passing. She called out some elements within the party who she accused of trying to run the party against the late Raila's wishes.
