President William Ruto has pledged his support for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), signalling a potential coalition between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the opposition party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the state funeral of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, President Ruto said he was committed to preserving Raila’s political legacy by strengthening ODM’s vision and structures.
“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.
His remarks come amid speculation that some ODM leaders who joined the government after Raila’s 2024 coalition pact could be sidelined as political realignments take shape.
The President praised political parties as vital pillars of democracy, assuring ODM supporters that the party would play a key role in Kenya’s future governance.
“To ODM members, I want to assure you that ODM will either form the next government or be part of the next government,” Ruto declared.
“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,” he added.
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho also reaffirmed his loyalty to Raila Odinga, vowing never to allow divisive politics to destroy what the late former Prime Minister built.
Speaking emotionally at the same event, Joho described Raila as a father figure and mentor who transformed his life and guided his political journey.
“When nobody knew me or believed in me, Raila did,” Joho said, drawing applause from mourners. “He was the one who held my hand from a young man and made me who I am today — from Member of Parliament for Kisauni, to Governor of Mombasa, and now a Cabinet Secretary.”
Joho, who said his family had no political background, credited Raila for shaping his rise to national leadership.
“I have never betrayed Raila when he was alive, and I will not in his death. I can never be where Raila never took me. Raila took us to Ruto’s government — that is where I belong,” he said.
He warned against attempts to divide ODM, promising to defend Raila’s legacy.
“I will personally drive out anyone who tries to divide the ODM party that Raila built with us. That will not happen under our watch,” Joho stated.
Joho also thanked President Ruto for granting Raila a dignified state burial, saying it was a gesture of national respect.
“Thank you, President Ruto, for giving Raila a befitting state burial, a gesture that honours his contribution to Kenya and democracy,” he said.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also reassured ODM supporters of his loyalty to the party, dismissing speculation about his political allegiance following Raila’s death.
“Because ODM is one of your biggest legacies, I, as Sifuna, will do everything in my power to keep this party together, even in the face of provocation — and you know what we are talking about,” he said.
He urged ODM leaders to avoid divisive politics and instead focus on uniting members across the country.
“This is not the time to push divisive narratives within ODM. ODM is a party for everyone. We as leaders should show unity so that other members can follow suit,” he added.
Ruth Odinga, Raila’s younger sister, echoed the same message, urging members to honour her brother’s memory by keeping the party united.
“ODM must remain one. That’s what he stood for — unity, peace, and justice for all,” she said.
East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member Winnie Odinga also hinted at returning to Kenyan politics, signalling her readiness to continue her father’s legacy.
“Your Excellency, our people appreciate your honouring my father. Thank you for standing with us,” Winnie told President Ruto. “You should also know, in case you are wondering, I am ready to return home.”
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