President William Ruto has defended his decision to appoint leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party into his Cabinet, despite criticism from some quarters. Speaking during a public address in Rongo, Homa Bay County, Ruto said some individuals are upset that he appointed ODM leaders such as John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi to key ministerial positions, even though they did not support his 2022 presidential bid.
Mbadi now serves as the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, while Wandayi heads the Energy Ministry. Their inclusion, alongside other ODM figures like Hassan Joho (Mining), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives), and Beatrice Askul (ASAL), signals a broader collaboration between Ruto’s administration and the opposition.
“Some people are angry with me because I appointed Mbadi and Wandayi. They say they did not vote for me. I have told them that the government of Kenya is for all citizens — those who voted for me and those who didn’t. It is for all Kenyans who pay taxes,” Ruto asserted.
The President emphasized that his government is inclusive and meant to serve all Kenyans, regardless of political affiliations. He described his working relationship with ODM as a broad-based approach to governance that seeks unity and national development over political rivalry.
Ruto also used the platform to fire a warning shot at his 2027 political opponents, cautioning them against relying on tribalism, hatred, and division as campaign tools. He urged them to present tangible development agendas instead.
“They must not think they can sell us anger, tribalism, hatred, and divisions. These will not determine the next election,” Ruto said.
He maintained that future elections will be won based on development-oriented manifestos and performance records, not emotional or ethnic appeals.
“You will decide who becomes your leaders based on roads, electricity, water, and other development plans,” the President told residents.
The remarks highlight Ruto’s continued push for national cohesion and a shift from traditional politics centered on ethnic loyalties and political rivalry.
