The prospect of a coalition between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga is gaining momentum following President Ruto’s recent visit to Nyanza.
During the four day visit that was marked by swathers of supporters and pomp, senior ODM officials and Raila’s close allies openly advocated for a political Union akin to the Azimio coalition that supported Odinga’s candidacy in the 2022 elections.
The call for unity was echoed by politicians from both Kenya Kwanza, Raila’s camp and political pundits , who displayed mutual praise and support.
In Homa Bay, the focus of the President’s speeches was the potential for a strong political partnership with Ruto expressing optimism that this collaboration will benefit both parties in the future, extending beyond his support for Raila’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship.
He invited the opposition to join him in forming the next government.
Raila’s allies showed their commitment to this prospective alliance, emphasizing their readiness to support Ruto’s administration in the coming years.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed expressed confidence that ODM would be part of the government post-2027, praising Ruto for his willingness to collaborate.
Treasury CS John Mbadi highlighted Ruto’s past support for Raila, noting that Ruto’s assistance in Raila’s 2008 appointment as Prime Minister demonstrated a longstanding friendship. Mbadi lauded Ruto’s recent inclusion of former ODM leaders in his administration.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati welcomed Ruto back to the party, acknowledging his historical role as a pioneer member of ODM. He extended an invitation for Ruto to rejoin ODM if he faces discomfort within his current party.
Gladys Wanga, ODM national chairperson and Homa Bay Governor, welcomed Ruto’s visit and expressed optimism about their newfound cooperation leading to developmental opportunities.
Several ODM MPs, including Lilian Gogo, indicated their support for Ruto’s administration, provided there is continued cooperation with Raila Odinga.
President Ruto, accompanied by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, various governors, senators, MPs, and senior officials, emphasized the need to transcend ethnic politics and unite Kenyans. He criticized detractors of his appointments of former ODM officials and reinforced the goal of national unity.
The visit included inspections of development projects such as the Oyugis Water Supply Project and thHe then visited Siaya for project launches and the homecoming ceremony of Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi before ending the tour with a warm reception at the Lakeside City of Kisumu where he launched a cocktail of projects.
The emerging coalition reflects a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape, potentially echoing the 2018 union between Raila and President Uhuru Kenyatta that formed the Azimio coalition.
Pundits however argue that the prospects of the new alliance between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga appear promising, though several factors will influence its success:
Immediate former Migori women representative Dr. Pamela Odhiambo argued that the alliance could foster greater political stability and national unity by bridging divides and reducing ethnic tensions.
“Both leaders’ commitment to collaboration may lead to more cohesive governance,” she said
Dr Odhiambo maintained that a strong partnership may enhance policy implementation and development projects, particularly in regions historically marginalized or politically divided.
Nairobi City based lawyer and Migori senatorial aspirant Gad Awuonda opined that the success of the alliance “will depend on the level of support from their respective political bases and the broader electorate.”
According to Mr Awuonda, positive public perception and backing from key political figures will be crucial.
“The biggest casualty however remains ODM affiliiates who had castigated their colleagues for reaching out to President Ruto.
“The so called traitors have emerged a reckoning force and the last men laughing. This has given them a news synergy in facing the electorates to the charging of their opponents,” Mr Awuonda noted.
Some ODM MPs had earlier faced reprisals for meeting Ruto at Statehouse earlier this year.
“Both Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza and Raila’s ODM will need to manage internal dissent and ensure alignment within their parties to maintain cohesion,” Awuonda noted.
He added that the alliance’s impact on upcoming elections will be significant.
“It could either strengthen their political influence or face challenges if not managed effectively.”
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