President William Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza team are currently in the United States for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit. However, back home, unexpected political news has emerged that could shake the 2027 race.
In a statement that left many Kenyans surprised, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga clarified that his party has not endorsed anyone for the 2027 general election.
Speaking during an ODM parliamentary group meeting in Machakos County, Raila expressed concern over some members prematurely declaring support for President Ruto’s re-election bid. He stressed that his partnership with Ruto was not about succession politics but about stabilizing the country after recent chaos, where protests saw Parliament and other government institutions attacked.
“Let me be clear. ODM has not settled on anyone as its preferred presidential candidate in 2027. Those shouting should stop and wait for official communication. For now, we only joined President Ruto to help stabilize the country. Going forward, we will decide what will happen in 2027,” Raila said.
Raila’s remarks are seen as a political setback for President Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza allies, who may have hoped for Raila’s backing in the next election. Without ODM’s support, Ruto could face a tough battle.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Fred Matiang’i are already laying strategies to unseat Ruto in 2027.
Kenyans are now closely watching how alliances will shape up as the country inches toward another high-stakes election.
