By The Weekly Vision Team
ODM party leader Raila Odinga has once again demonstrated his political acumen by seemingly outmanoeuvring a sitting president by effectively embedding himself within President William Ruto’s government framework. This latest move by Mr Odinga is not new; he has in the past successfully inserted himself into various administrations, including those of former presidents Daniel Arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta.
Currently, Odinga has positioned himself as a trusted advisor to President William Ruto on multiple administrative issues, mirroring his previous role under Kenyatta. Political analysts have noted Raila’s significant achievements in Kenya’s political landscape, suggesting that he will continue to be a key figure in Ruto’s administration in the foreseeable future.
A deeper analysis of Raila’s strategy reveals how he has effectively stirred turmoil within the Kenya Kwanza ranks, particularly by creating divisions among President Ruto’s inner circle. As the last elections drew near, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, along with allies Kimani Ichungwa and Ndindi Nyoro, presented a united front, claiming their primary goal was to keep Raila Odinga away from Ruto and the State House. However, tensions have since surfaced between Gachagua and both Nyoro and Ichungwa, leading to speculation about a potential impeachment plot against the Deputy President. Raila has skillfully exacerbated these divisions, with Ichungwa now aligning himself with him.
Additionally, Raila has worked to deepen the rift within Ruto’s base, particularly between the president and his deputy. This schism has fragmented the so-called “Mountain” region, creating new opportunities for Raila and the Azimio faction. The ongoing discord between Ruto and Gachagua is likely to shape Raila’s political strategies as the 2027 presidential elections approach, potentially positioning him favourably amid their fallout.
Moreover, Raila has leveraged his political influence to secure significant roles for four of his trusted associates within Ruto’s government. Many Kenyans still perceive the collaboration between Raila and President Ruto as unlikely, despite its current reality. The public remains curious about how Raila managed to solidify his position within Ruto’s administration.
It is essential to highlight that Raila’s prominent allies now occupy influential roles within the government. However, this situation has not gone without criticism, as some senior members of the ODM, led by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, have voiced their opposition to the arrangement.
