Raila Odinga has warned ODM Members of Parliament against endorsing President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, insisting that the party has not made any formal decision on its electoral strategy.
The ODM leader issued the caution during a parliamentary group meeting aimed at reinforcing party discipline and clarifying its position within the current political arrangement. His remarks follow public declarations of support for Ruto’s second term by several ODM members, including Cabinet officials, prompting concerns over internal divisions.
Raila reminded MPs that the March 2025 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) does not include any agreement on the 2027 general election. He emphasised that any endorsement or alliance regarding the next polls must be based on formal party resolutions, not individual statements.
The meeting also included a strategic review of the MoU, where party officials questioned its continued relevance amid growing concerns about its implementation. The review recommended that ODM consider withdrawing from the agreement if its terms continue to be overlooked.
MPs were urged to uphold political visibility and strengthen legislative oversight, particularly in areas falling outside the scope of the MoU. Raila acknowledged the complex dynamics within the party, which is increasingly divided between members supporting the Kenya Kwanza administration and those worried about ODM’s political identity.
He defended the decision to join the coalition government, citing national stability and economic cooperation, while assuring members that ODM remains independent and capable of contesting future elections on its own. The presence of National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, a former ODM chairman, highlighted Raila’s attempt to unify the party.
Mbadi presented an overview of the economic outlook, underscoring that ODM’s involvement in government is based on pragmatic goals rather than political surrender. Raila also referenced historical events to support the party’s collaborative stance, particularly the 2007–2008 post-election crisis and the resulting power-sharing agreement.
He argued that political compromise, when pursued in the national interest, should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. He added that the current budget reflects input from both ODM and UDA. Despite these assurances, party unity remains under pressure.
Cabinet members such as Opiyo Wandayi, Hassan Joho, and Wycliffe Oparanya have publicly supported Ruto’s re-election, raising questions about their commitment to ODM’s leadership. Joho, speaking in July, called his support a strategic move for coastal leaders seeking national influence, while Wandayi has openly aligned himself with the president’s agenda.
