Africa-Press – Kenya. Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has stated that his support for President William Ruto will last until 2027, effectively ending speculation whether he could back the Head of State beyond one term.
In an interview with NTV at his Karen residence on Sunday, Raila clarified that the ongoing political collaboration with Ruto’s administration is temporary and only intended to help stabilise the country during a period of economic and social uncertainty.
He was firm that the partnership does not extend to the 2027 succession plan and warned against early campaign talk, insisting that focus must remain on delivering the government’s promises.
“We have said that we are in the broad-based government until 2027. We did not say that we are going to work with UDA beyond 2027. Those are issues that we will discuss at the appropriate time, and the decision will be made by party members, not Raila Odinga alone,” he stated.
The remarks come amid growing speculation that Odinga’s recent engagements with Ruto could signal a deeper political realignment. However, the ODM leader was categorical that any future direction would be determined through party structures.
Raila’s remarks are expected to stir political tensions both within the ruling coalition and the opposition. Some observers have interpreted his comments as a possible signal that he could either endorse another candidate or explore a new working arrangement with President Ruto.
The President’s camp continues to face mounting pressure, especially after a public fallout with the youth over unmet promises from the 2022 campaigns.
At the same time, the ODM leader reiterated that his push for a national dialogue – popularly referred to as a “conclave” – was driven by a desire to address the country’s challenges, not to offer political cover to Ruto.
“I am happy that Kenyans are speaking about this conclave. This is not intended to help me or Ruto. It is a people’s process. Our problems will not be solved by chanting ‘Ruto must go.’ We must find a practical way of addressing these issues,” Raila stated.
However, when asked whether he would run for president in 2027, the veteran opposition chief remained noncommittal, saying that such a decision would be made at the appropriate time.
Raila also revisited the reasons behind his decision to work with President Ruto’s administration, recalling the events of 2023.
“In 2023, we took to the streets to demand action on critical issues—electoral justice, the high cost of living, and rampant corruption. The government responded with brutal force, and we lost about 70 lives. When we attempted to honour the victims, no judge allowed us to hold a public memorial. We were forced to conduct it quietly,” he recounted.
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