Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has weighed in on the prospect of running for president in the next elections, citing the absence of a suitable candidate from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party who can compete for the top seat.
Speaking on Thursday during an interview on Ramogi TV, Wandayi dismissed plans to contest against President William Ruto, stating that he was committed to working with the latter beyond 2027.
"As the ODM party, we have been looking for the presidency for the last five elections, but unfortunately, we have never got it. Now that is water under the bridge," he revealed.
Adding, "The question is, is there an ODM member who is ready to vie for the presidency so that we can support him? As for me, I am not ready to vie for the presidency in 2027, maybe after 2027."
During the interview, Wandayi called for a clear political path within ODM, warning that constant tensions could derail the party's future. He also urged ODM politicians to exercise sobriety and make sound decisions.
Wandayi went ahead to accuse a section of party members of attempting to divide the party through populist comments, urging them to move beyond such politics and offer alternatives to Kenyans.
"Everyone is allowed to express themselves freely, be it a preacher or even a businessperson. But when you talk and criticise something, make sure you provide an alternative so that we can evaluate the alternative to see whether it is viable," Wandayi said.
He emphasised that his decision to work with President William Ruto's administration should not be criticised, stating that his move to work as a CS was for the benefit of all Kenyans.
"Our decision to work in the government is not for individual benefit. Today, I am a cabinet secretary, but tomorrow, I might be removed from the cabinet position; life must continue," he added.
Wandayi also weighed in on the political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, acknowledging the existence of only two political camps in the country.
According to him, the political contest in the next general elections will largely be between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's camp and President Ruto's side, adding that the ODM party stands a minimal chance of competing for the presidency.
He noted that while Gachagua's side has already mapped out its political formation, ODM was only left with the option of sticking with Ruto's side in the next elections.
"Should we, as ODM members or the Luo community, front our own candidate for the presidency in 2027? Or should we continue uniting with Ruto? Because Gachagua and his team have already outlined their plan, and we can not fit in," Wandayi commented.
