Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has stirred political speculation by hinting at a potential partnership between President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) that could extend beyond the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on a local TV station on Thursday, September 25, 2025, Cherargei claimed that discussions within the ruling coalition’s “kitchen” indicate a long-term working relationship between Kenya Kwanza and ODM. “Our working partnership will go beyond 2027. Some of us who are in the kitchen know this. You can take it to the bank,” he stated.
Cherargei further revealed that the ongoing talks could see ODM producing the Deputy President under a power-sharing arrangement. “The conversation in the kitchen is whether the Deputy President is going to be from ODM. We are still cooking. ODM and UDA working together means there are a lot of positions to be shared, and these positions will be subject to negotiations,” he added.
The remarks have sparked questions over the future role of Kithure Kindiki, who currently serves as Deputy President, should the coalition opt to select a new running mate from ODM. Analysts say such a move could significantly reshape Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Cherargei’s comments come shortly after a national TIFA survey suggested that Raila Odinga’s backing could be pivotal for Ruto’s re-election bid. According to the data released on September 24, 2025, 32 percent of respondents believe Raila will support Ruto, while 39 percent expect him to rejoin the opposition, either by contesting himself (22 percent) or supporting another candidate (17 percent).
The survey highlights that Raila’s political capital remains central to Kenya’s electoral dynamics. With talks of a possible ODM-UDA power-sharing deal and Kindiki’s position uncertain, the coming months are likely to witness heightened negotiations and political maneuvering within the ruling coalition.
