President William Ruto and opposition chief Raila Odinga’s allies now want the two leaders to publicly declare their political pact ahead of the 2027 general election.
In what could spark significant political realignments, the leaders’ supporters, including MPs, say a formal announcement of the alliance is long overdue.
They said a clear direction is necessary for grassroots mobilisation and strategic campaign planning to beat rivals.
In March, President Ruto and Raila signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under a 10-point agenda aimed at fostering national unity, inclusivity and political stability.
Since the agreement, the two have demonstrated a cordial working relationship, attending joint events and issuing coordinated political messages—a development that has fueled speculation about a potential 2027 coalition.
However, neither leader has formally confirmed whether they intend to work jointly in the next elections.
Uncertainty still lingers, particularly amid whispers within political circles that Raila could be contemplating yet another stab at the presidency.
Their allies say the prolonged silence is complicating their preparations for the next election cycle.
They warn that without explicit guidance, political mobilisation efforts at the grassroots level risk stagnating—giving the opposition a head start in the race to 2027.
In Nairobi, several ODM leaders have publicly declared readiness for campaigns.
Newly elected ODM Nairobi branch officials, led by chairman George Aladwa, affirmed their commitment to the alliance and campaigns once instructed by their party leader and the President.
“What Raila says regarding who we should support for President, we shall follow,” the Makadara MP said.
“He is our party leader and whoever he endorses, we will support.”
Aladwa reiterated that ODM currently operates under instructions to support Ruto and the broad-based government framework formed under the MoU.
He said the party is actively strengthening its grassroots networks, revitalising political structures and positioning itself strategically for the 2027 general election.
The MP said a joint Raila-Ruto strategy will be instrumental in shaping Nairobi’s political landscape, especially in maximising the number of elective seats the party can clinch—from ward level all the way to parliamentary positions.
“Our focus is unity and stability,” Aladwa said. “The cooperation between Raila and Ruto has brought a sense of national cohesion and equitable development, which we are keen to uphold as we move towards the next polls.”
This renewed push for clarity comes days after Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, a close confidant of President Ruto, echoed similar sentiments while addressing mourners at a funeral attended by Raila in Bomet county.
“The journey you have started with the President—continue nurturing it,” Cheruiyot told Raila.
“At the right time, we will lock you and Ruto in one room so that you can agree on the way forward for 2027. Whatever you agree upon, we will follow without question.”
The Kericho Senator added, “We believe that between the two of you, there is enough wisdom, patriotism and love for this country to chart a viable course for the nation.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang during the funeral of Suna West MP Peter Masara's son last week.
Kajwang reaffirmed unwavering loyalty to Raila, stating that the ODM rank-and-file would act in line with the decision he ultimately makes regarding 2027.
“Whatever Raila Odinga says, whenever he says it, and whatever whistle he blows—that is what we shall follow,” the MP declared.
“All these speculations in the media and from political opportunists mean nothing to us."
INSTANT ANALYSIS
Since the signing of their MoU, Raila and Ruto have not only maintained a cordial rapport but have also publicly praised each other—gestures that continue to hint at a broader political partnership ahead of the next general election. As Kenya inches closer to the 2027 polls, the country watches closely to see whether this budding alliance between the long-time political adversaries will evolve into a formidable force capable of reshaping the nation’s political terrain.
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