The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially cut ties with President William Ruto, marking a major political shift in Kenya’s landscape. Party leader Raila Odinga confirmed the move during a meeting in Machakos, declaring that ODM would no longer cooperate with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Speaking to a charged crowd, Raila accused the Ruto government of failing to keep its promises and betraying the trust of Kenyans.
He said ODM had reached a point where continued association with the government was no longer tenable, especially at a time when ordinary citizens are struggling under the weight of high taxes, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
“This government has let down Kenyans. They came with promises of lowering the cost of living, creating jobs, and uniting the country, but instead, they have delivered pain and division. ODM cannot be part of this deception any longer,” Raila told supporters in Machakos.
The decision is expected to realign the opposition’s role in Parliament and intensify political pressure on President Ruto. ODM legislators have been instructed to withdraw any form of cooperation with Kenya Kwanza, including joint committee work or informal understandings that were previously in place.
ODM officials present at the Machakos meeting echoed Raila’s remarks, emphasizing that the party must now fully commit to holding the government accountable. They said ODM will focus on championing the struggles of ordinary Kenyans, particularly on issues of economic hardship, governance, and corruption.
Political analysts believe the move could reshape alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election. ODM’s exit from any form of cooperation with Ruto signals a return to full opposition politics, and it may strengthen Raila’s hand in building a new coalition with like-minded leaders.
For now, ODM supporters appear energized by the announcement, viewing it as a reaffirmation of the party’s independence and commitment to defending the people’s interests.
The Machakos declaration could therefore mark the beginning of a new political battlefront between Raila Odinga and William Ruto.
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