Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga yesterday chaired a high-level Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) meeting to deliberate on whether the party should enter into a coalition with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The meeting took place against a backdrop of sharp divisions within ODM, with concerns that Raila might be warming up to President Ruto’s government. Some of his key allies, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, have warned him to tread carefully to protect his distinguished political legacy. This was Raila’s first time chairing ODM’s Central Management Committee since stepping aside to focus on his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship. During his absence, Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o was appointed acting party leader.
Siaya Governor James Orengo has urged ODM members to be cautious about the push to formally join the broad-based government, emphasising the need for strategic reflection. While acknowledging the potential benefits of inclusivity and political collaboration, Orengo insisted that ODM must safeguard its core values and avoid hasty decisions. “I want to caution my colleagues not to be overly excited about this broad-based government. We must tread carefully and not simply echo their agenda,” he stated.
Speaking at a burial in Siaya County over the weekend, Orengo challenged ODM leaders to focus on party unity and clarity of purpose rather than rushing into alliances that could dilute the party’s identity or alienate its support base.
He argued that, despite ODM’s 20-year existence, it has yet to produce a President, making it crucial for the party to reassess its goals and strategies. He warned against blindly aligning with the current administration, urging colleagues to balance ambition with pragmatism.
Atandi Backs Raila-Ruto Alliance, Promises Regional Gains
Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi, however, voiced strong support for collaboration between Raila and President Ruto, arguing that the region stood to benefit significantly from aligning with the government ahead of the 2027 elections.
“I want to urge our members to support this government. I spoke to Raila, and he assured me that I would get a plum position. If I secure it, the entire region will benefit,” Atandi declared to applause.
He further dismissed any alternative opposition coalitions being crafted by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, asserting that backing Ruto’s government would bring greater benefits.
Atandi also pointed out a contradiction in Gachagua’s stance, questioning why he would now appear to support Raila after previously dismissing his electability, particularly in the Mt Kenya region.
“It is surprising that Gachagua, who once claimed Raila was unelectable, is now seemingly inviting him to consider another presidential run. Why the sudden change?” he posed.
Raila’s Looming Announcement Sparks Anxiety
While in Kisumu last week, Raila hinted that he would soon make a definitive statement on whether he will fully support President Ruto’s re-election bid or remain in opposition. His upcoming announcement has heightened political tension, with millions of Kenyans awaiting his next move following his failed AU bid.
Already, divisions within ODM have become evident, with some leaders backing Raila’s engagement with Ruto, while others, led by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, oppose the idea.
Sources within ODM suggest that National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed (Suna East) and a faction of the party are quietly pushing for a merger between Raila and Ruto. If such a pact materialises, Raila could secure control of up to 50 per cent of Cabinet and Principal Secretary positions. As the political landscape continues to shift, ODM faces a critical juncture, with Raila’s next move set to shape the future of both the party and national politics.
