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Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has stated that President William Ruto’s chances of re-election in 2027 are slim, even if he secures the support of Raila Odinga.

Sifuna, a vocal member of the opposition, argued that the Kenya Kwanza coalition, led by Ruto, has failed to win the confidence of the public, citing incompetence as the key factor behind the President’s dwindling popularity. He made it clear that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will not support the current administration, despite suggestions from other party members.

“Even with ODM’s support, Ruto will lose the 2027 elections. As a party, we do not support the direction in which this country is headed under his leadership,” Sifuna declared in an interview on Citizen TV.

He added that ODM will only align itself with like-minded political parties that prioritize the welfare of Kenyans and demonstrate effective governance.

“We will not be forced into alliances with parties that are incompetent. The Kenya Kwanza government has shown itself to be the most ineffective since independence,” Sifuna stated.

The remarks come amid claims that ODM is secretly aligning with the government, following the formation of a broad-based administration. ODM Deputy Party Leader, however, dismissed these allegations, while Kisii Governor Simba Arati reassured that the party remains separate from Kenya Kwanza, urging members to uphold the party's principles.

Internally, ODM is divided over its stance toward Ruto’s government, with some members criticizing the President’s leadership. A faction within the party believes ODM should focus on securing the presidency in 2027, rejecting certain presidential appointments and accusing other members of excessive praise for Ruto.

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has urged for continued cooperation between the opposition and the government despite ODM leader Raila Odinga’s loss in the race for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.

Support for Raila's AUC Bid: UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar emphasized that the government, led by President William Ruto, did its part to support Raila Odinga in securing the AUC top seat. Despite Odinga's defeat to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Omar reaffirmed the government's commitment to backing Odinga's bid.

Emphasis on Unity: Hassan Omar expressed that the outcome of the election should not derail the efforts of building a united Kenya. He highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between President Ruto and Odinga, stressing that this alliance remains crucial for the country’s future.

President Ruto's Solidarity with Raila: The UDA party praised President Ruto for his steadfast support of Raila Odinga throughout the AUC chairmanship campaign, underlining his courage in standing by the ODM leader until the end. Omar noted that while luck was not on Odinga's side, the future still holds potential for further opportunities.

Call for Political Solidarity: The statement also called for political unity, encouraging both Ruto and Odinga to remain in solidarity, as their cooperation is viewed as a key component in fostering national progress.

Future Prospects: Despite the setback, Omar expressed optimism about future opportunities, stressing that the political landscape may present new avenues for success, urging leaders to stay united for the benefit of Kenya.