Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has reiterated his call for Kenyans to support President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election. Speaking during a fundraiser in Kisumu County on Sunday, CS Wandayi emphasized the importance of unity and honoring the late Raila Odinga’s mission to unite the nation.
“To honor him, we should not deviate from the path he left us. That is the path that will unite all Kenyans,” Wandayi said, urging those who supported the former Prime Minister to rally behind President Ruto’s political faction.
He highlighted that the political landscape ahead of 2027 is largely defined by two main formations, saying: “There are only two formations going into 2027 – President William Ruto or Rigathi Gachagua. Ruto is our friend. Let us have our own issues, but we must agree that he is our friend.”
CS Wandayi further emphasized that unity and voting as a bloc would be crucial for ensuring that citizens’ votes have a tangible impact. His remarks come amid jitters within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following the demise of Raila Odinga, with party leaders questioning its future direction.
Meanwhile, ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati clarified that the party will continue participating in the broad-based government arrangement until 2027. He stressed that this engagement does not imply that ODM has formally joined the Kenya Kwanza coalition, noting that the party remains independent and committed to defending justice, transparency, and the values of its founding principles.
Arati’s remarks underscore ODM’s intention to maintain a balanced role in government while remaining true to its core mission. The party’s position highlights a delicate political balancing act as Kenya approaches the next general election, with leaders navigating both national alliances and party loyalty.
As the 2027 elections approach, CS Wandayi’s endorsement of President Ruto signals a significant alignment of political forces, reflecting efforts to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy while shaping the country’s future leadership.
