President Ruto signals readiness for fresh political pact with ODM ahead of 2027 polls
President Ruto said he is ready to enter a fresh political pact with ODM ahead of the 2027 general elections if the party remains united and organised.
President William Ruto has once again signalled his willingness to work with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in future governance.
Addressing Migori residents on Wednesday, December 17, during the 5th Piny Luo Festival, President Ruto said he is ready to enter a fresh political pact with ODM ahead of the 2027 general elections if the party remains united and organised.
Ruto said his goal is to form a broad-based government through an agreement with ODM after the next polls.
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He stressed that such engagement would only be possible if the party builds internal strength and rallies its supporters across the country.
The president told ODM leaders and supporters that unity within the party would determine its ability to negotiate any future political deal.
Ruto cautioned that internal rifts could weaken the party and limit its influence at the negotiating table.
“I am calling on the ODM party to strategise itself and remain strong. We want a strong ODM so that we can plan Kenyan affairs together,” Ruto said.
He added that political cooperation would require both sides to approach talks from a position of strength, noting that his party would also need to consolidate its base.
“If you make ODM stronger, I will also make my party UDA stronger so that we can meet and form a government through an agreement.”
During his address, the president reflected on his earlier political life within ODM, recalling his time working closely with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. He said Odinga played a key role in mentoring him and shaping his political outlook.
"I was a member of ODM, but God made me even more successful so that I can meet with ODM again. Raila is the one who taught us politics. I was his best student, and he immensely contributed to my presidency,” Ruto said.
In recent months, Ruto has taken a more conciliatory tone towards ODM, particularly following Odinga’s death. He has increasingly spoken about the party’s direction and has publicly defended its place in national politics.
Only weeks ago, he described ODM as a stable and enduring political party, saying it had remained firm despite losing its long-time leader. He noted that the party had continued to rise above personal interests, regional divisions and tribal politics.
Ruto echoed similar remarks during the ODM Founders’ dinner held in Mombasa on November 16, where he said strong national parties are essential to Kenya’s democratic growth and long-term stability.
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