No Turning Back: Raila Declares Loyalty to Ruto in Fiery Speech
ODM party leader and former PM Raila Odinga has revealed he turned down a political offer from opposition leaders to form a coalition against President Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a recent public address, Odinga said the opposition leaders proposed a deal where they would back his 2027 presidential bid in exchange for his support of another candidate in 2032. But he rejected the offer, citing mistrust and past disrespect from those involved.
“Some of them said we were outsiders. One even said if he saw us lining up at State House, he’d chase us away. Can you work with someone like that?” Odinga asked rhetorically.
Instead, Odinga reaffirmed his commitment to working with Ruto, describing the alliance as a strategic partnership for national unity and development. “I am not going anywhere. I will not abandon Ruto because I know the direction we are taking. We will walk together in unity,” he said.
The veteran politician advised against premature political activity ahead of the 2027 election and told his political base to wait for direction at the right time. “No one can claim to lead my people politically. When the time comes, I’ll give direction,” he added.
Odinga defended his working with the Kenya Kwanza government as a deliberate move to bring in inclusivity and socioeconomic growth. “We’ve made a bold decision. Our people cannot always remain in the cold. When an opportunity arises that can improve their lives, we take it,” he said.
This is a big shift in the political landscape as Odinga, once an opposition leader, is now positioning himself as a unifying figure in the current government. The implications of this will be keenly watched as the country heads to the 2027 polls.
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No Turning Back: Raila Declares Loyalty to Ruto in Fiery Speech