In what could be a defining moment for Kenya’s political landscape, President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga are facing increasing pressure from both their allies and critics, as concerns about their political pact grow louder.
The alliance, once hailed as a symbol of unity and national healing following the 2022 elections, now seems to be under strain. Critics argue that the agreement is causing more division, and political analysts suggest that it could either make or break both leaders, depending on how they navigate the mounting challenges.
The tension was palpable today in Siaya, where Raila Odinga’s supporters gathered for the burial of his close aide. While the occasion was meant to honor a life lost, it quickly became a platform for political expressions. ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo, two of the most influential figures in Odinga’s political circle, made comments that raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about a possible fallout between Raila and the Ruto administration.
Edwin Sifuna, who has been a vocal advocate for the opposition, pointedly criticized the current government’s approach to the country’s governance, specifically regarding the constitution.
“The constitution is being dismembered before our eyes,” Sifuna lamented. “What happened to the promises of a government that would uphold the rule of law and protect our democracy? Instead, we see a pattern of actions that undermine the very principles that the people fought for during the struggle for independence.” His words were a direct reference to the growing concerns that President Ruto’s administration is consolidating power, leaving little room for opposition and sidelining the role of the constitution.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, a long-time ally of Raila Odinga, also weighed in on the issue. In his speech, Orengo took a more measured tone but echoed Sifuna’s sentiments.
“It is time for us to reflect on where we are heading as a nation,” Orengo said. “We have seen this government promise the moon, but the people of Kenya are being left behind. We cannot ignore the growing dissatisfaction, especially among those who supported us.” Orengo’s comments seemed to reflect a deepening frustration among some of the key figures within ODM, who are starting to question the political marriage with Ruto.
The growing rift between ODM leaders and the Ruto administration has been brewing for months, as Odinga’s supporters feel increasingly marginalized. Many are accusing Ruto of backtracking on promises made during the handshake agreement with Odinga, particularly on issues related to the economy, governance, and inclusivity.
“We are being neglected,” said one ODM supporter, who attended the burial in Siaya. “We were promised that this partnership would bring tangible change, but all we are seeing is more of the same old political games. People are tired.”
Raila Odinga himself remains firm in his stance, defending the pact as a necessary step for the stability and unity of the country. In a brief statement at the burial, he acknowledged the criticisms but reiterated that he was committed to ensuring that the people’s interests were protected.
“Our commitment to peace and unity remains unwavering,” Odinga said. “But we cannot ignore the challenges we face as a nation. The path we have taken is not easy, but it is one that we must continue walking for the sake of the people.”
Despite Odinga’s statements, there is a growing sense among his supporters that the political alliance with Ruto may be doing more harm than good. A large segment of the ODM base feels betrayed, and some are calling for an immediate end to the pact.
“We can no longer sit idly by as our voices are ignored,” said one frustrated ODM supporter in Siaya. “The people who elected us into office are asking why we are still working with Ruto when he has shown no interest in addressing our concerns.”
The political fallout from this alliance is not limited to ODM alone. Critics of President Ruto’s government are also voicing their discontent. Members of the opposition parties, including the Azimio coalition, have raised alarms about what they perceive as an erosion of democratic checks and balances.
“The Ruto-Raila pact is a betrayal of the people’s mandate,” said one prominent opposition leader, who spoke anonymously for fear of retaliation. “Kenya’s democracy is being undermined in real-time, and we cannot remain silent as this happens.”
There are also concerns that the political maneuvering of both Ruto and Odinga could lead to the further fragmentation of the political landscape. While the pact was initially seen as a move towards healing the country’s political divisions, it is now clear that it is polarizing both sides.
“The idea was to bring unity, but instead, we are seeing division,” said a political analyst, who asked not to be named. “Ruto’s supporters feel that Odinga is trying to undermine the president’s authority, while Odinga’s base feels betrayed by a lack of meaningful change.”
As tensions continue to rise, questions are being raised about the long-term viability of the Ruto-Raila alliance. Will the pact survive the mounting pressure, or will the deepening divisions lead to a full political breakup? Only time will tell. However, what is clear is that both Ruto and Odinga are facing a major test of leadership.
The next few months will be crucial in determining whether they can weather the storm or whether their political futures will be forever altered by the discontent brewing on the ground.
With ODM leaders like Sifuna and Orengo signaling potential exits, and with Raila’s once-unified base now fractured, the stakes for both political giants have never been higher. For now, Kenya’s political future hangs in the balance, and the clock is ticking.
