A Political Plot Twist in Kenya
NAIROBI, Kenya—Kenya’s political landscape just took an unexpected turn. President William Ruto has defended his growing alliance with longtime rival and ODM leader Raila Odinga, telling off critics who oppose his push for unity.
During the burial of Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, Ruto said political rivalry should never come at the cost of national unity.
And in what seemed like a major hint at Kenya’s political future, he signaled the start of formal collaboration with the opposition, beginning with ODM.
“We need to be patriotic about Kenya. We can disagree, but we must never disagree on the destiny of Kenya,” Ruto said, emphasizing that his mission is to unite the country rather than fuel division.
His remarks come amid increasing opposition—especially from former deputy Rigathi Gachagua, who is rallying forces to challenge him in 2027.
The elephant in the room: Is this unity push about national stability, or is it a strategic move to consolidate power?
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi backed Ruto’s efforts, pointing out that Ruto and Raila were the main contenders in 2022.
If Ruto reaches out to Raila Odinga, na nyinyi supporters wao mnakula mori na kurusha chepechepe za maneno, mnatukana wengine, learn from history. When elephants fight nyasi ndio inaumi and when elephants make love, the grass suffers more. So mjichunge – Moses Wetang’ula.
If they can now work together, why should their supporters be at odds?
“Raila and Ruto were on the ballot in 2022. If they are now coming together to unite Kenyans, why are their supporters getting angry?” Wetang’ula questioned.
Kingi reinforced the message: “If we want to move Kenya forward, we must stop dividing people based on ethnicity or region.”
But beneath the unity talk, a political restructuring is brewing. Lawmakers at the event pushed for the NADCO report—a document that, among other things, proposes creating a Prime Minister’s office.
If passed, this could significantly alter Kenya’s power dynamics.
What Happens Next?
Ruto’s stated that his government is not just about Kenya Kwanza—it’s about a shared vision, one he claims aligns with Raila’s.
Ushirikiano wa Ruto na Raila: Rais Ruto atetea ushirika na Raila Odinga. Rais asema muungano wao utawafaidi wananchi. Rais anasema azma yake ni kuleta umoja wa kitaifa #CitizenNipasheWikendi @RashidAbdalla @LuluHassan
He pointed out that both parties had similar manifestos, especially on affordable housing and universal healthcare.
“Azimio and Kenya Kwanza manifestos are the same. So why don’t we come together so Kenya can move forward?” he argued.
While this unity push may sound like a win for national cohesion, it’s also sparking questions.
Will this alliance stabilize the government or shift power dynamics in unexpected ways? And what does it mean for those who still oppose Ruto’s leadership?
