A new wave of political realignment is taking shape in Kenya following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, with leaders from both the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) coalescing around President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda, a UDA legislator, has publicly endorsed President Ruto as the joint presidential candidate for a coalition that could bring together UDA, ODM, Ford-Kenya, UDM, KANU, and other parties.
“For those who don’t know or should know early, the joint UDA/ODM, Ford-K, UDM, KANU and other coalition parties’ 2027–2032 candidate is H.E. Dr. William Ruto,” Jhanda declared.
He further urged ODM members to embrace truth, unity, and purpose under Ruto’s leadership as the party repositions itself for the post-Raila era.
“It’s time for President Ruto to officially take over ODM and lead a joint ticket in 2027. The ODM party must return to truth, unity, and purpose as we build a broad-based political movement till 2032,” Jhanda said.
His remarks followed President Ruto’s pledge to safeguard ODM from internal collapse and preserve Raila Odinga’s political legacy.
During Raila’s burial in Bondo, Siaya County, Ruto vowed to keep the ODM movement strong and united.
“ODM must be strong as we go to 2027 because that is how we will have a strong and stable government,” he noted.
Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi also echoed Jhanda’s views, revealing his new political allegiance to Ruto.
“Baba taught me politics of loyalty… Today, I have transferred my political loyalty to President William Ruto,” Atandi said.
The growing support from leaders across party lines highlights an emerging push for a unified political front that seeks to promote national unity and stability while honouring Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy.
