ODM Leaders Divided Over President Ruto’s 2027 Support After Raila’s Death
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing deep internal divisions over whether to support President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election following the death of its long-time leader, Raila Odinga.
What was once Kenya’s most united opposition movement has now been thrown into uncertainty, with key figures sending mixed signals about the party’s next political direction.
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna was among the first to break ranks, openly declaring that he would not support any decision by the party to back President Ruto in 2027.
Sifuna stated that if ODM were to endorse Ruto’s re-election bid, he would rather resign than compromise the party’s founding principles.
He emphasized that ODM was built on opposition ideals and must not lose its independence for political convenience. According to Sifuna, cooperation between ODM and the government should not be mistaken for blind loyalty.
However, not all ODM leaders share his view. A section of politicians from Nyanza, including Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, have publicly pledged to support President Ruto.
They argue that doing so would fulfill what they claim were Raila Odinga’s final wishes — unity and continued cooperation for the sake of national stability.
During a meeting held in Bondo shortly after Raila’s passing, several ODM officials expressed their willingness to partner with Ruto, describing the move as a way to honor Raila’s legacy of peace and political maturity.
President Ruto has also taken steps to strengthen his relationship with ODM members. During a recent public address, he promised to safeguard the party’s interests and hinted at a possible alliance ahead of 2027.
Ruto praised Raila Odinga for his long service to the nation and assured ODM supporters that his government would respect their political space. He noted that while political competition was healthy, national unity should remain the top priority.
Despite these gestures, many ODM loyalists remain cautious. Some fear that aligning too closely with the ruling party could weaken ODM’s identity and turn it into an extension of Ruto’s political machinery.
Others believe that staying close to power could bring development to their regions and give the party more influence in government decisions.
The contrasting opinions have created visible tension within ODM, with different factions forming around those who want to cooperate with Ruto and those who want to maintain total independence.
Analysts believe Raila Odinga’s death has created a leadership vacuum within ODM that may take time to fill. Without his unifying influence, the party is struggling to define its position ahead of the 2027 elections.
Some political observers have noted that ODM now stands at a crossroads — whether to remain as the main opposition voice or rebrand itself as a partner in government.
While reports have circulated online claiming that ODM leaders have “dumped” President Ruto or completely withdrawn support, current evidence shows that such claims are exaggerated.
In reality, ODM’s leadership has not made any official declaration rejecting or endorsing Ruto. Instead, the party has maintained a cautious stance, insisting that it will make its own independent decision when the right time comes.
Raila Odinga’s death has also reignited discussions about ODM’s future leadership. Several names have been mentioned as possible successors, but none have yet commanded nationwide recognition comparable to Raila’s. Until a clear leader emerges, ODM’s position on whether to support President Ruto in 2027 is likely to remain uncertain.
For now, the Orange Democratic Movement appears to be walking a delicate line — balancing cooperation with the government while trying to preserve its independence.
As Kenya heads closer to the next election, all eyes will be on ODM to see whether it will back President Ruto or choose to field its own presidential candidate.
One thing remains clear: Raila Odinga’s death has left a huge political gap, and how ODM handles this critical moment will determine whether the party can maintain its relevance in the 2027 elections or fade into political confusion.
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