President William Ruto’s bid for re-election in 2027 faces uncertainty as ODM, a key ally in his administration, sends mixed signals about their support. After losing ground in the Mt. Kenya region, which provided over four million votes in 2022, Ruto turned his attention to Raila Odinga’s strongholds.
Although some ODM leaders have pledged their backing for Ruto, the party recently reaffirmed plans to field its own presidential candidate. ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna criticized aligning with Ruto, calling it a political mistake, and highlighted the President’s declining popularity.
Tensions within ODM are evident, as several Nairobi MPs openly support Ruto, citing his development agenda and unity efforts. These MPs, including George Aladwa, TJ Kajwang’, and Beatrice Elachi, suggested a possible merger between ODM and Ruto’s UDA. Conversely, prominent ODM figures like Sifuna, Babu Owino, and Richard Onyonka oppose such alliances, emphasizing party unity and autonomy.
Acting ODM leader Anyang’ Nyong’o warned members against supporting rivals, urging commitment to democratic means for securing power. However, Aladwa and others remain defiant, advocating for collaboration with Ruto based on his inclusive approach, which has co-opted former ODM leaders into government positions.
The divisions within ODM, coupled with Mt. Kenya’s diminishing support for Ruto, pose challenges for his re-election, leaving the party at a crossroads as the 2027 elections approach.
