Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has revealed that the Orange Democratic Movement will field a presidential candidate to face William Ruto in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Monday evening during an interview on TV47, Nyong’o said the party is independent and will not shy away from the presidential race. He said ODM will present candidates for all elective positions, just like any other political party in Kenya.
“Yes, our party will field a presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 general elections. Currently, that is the position because the party is an independent one, and it has the right to field a candidate,” Nyong’o said.
While confirming ODM’s plan, he also explained that the party is open to discussions that could change the strategy before 2027. He said politics is unpredictable, and they will make decisions when the right time comes.
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“However, if there is a discourse leading up to the elections to do otherwise, we will cross that bridge when the time comes,” Nyong’o added.
The governor also spoke about ODM’s relationship with the current government. He said the party is only engaging with the administration on matters of public interest but is not part of the ruling coalition.
He explained that the government was formed by the United Democratic Alliance and other affiliated parties, not ODM. He insisted that ODM is still in the opposition and will only change its role through an election.
“The ODM party is participating in the government without being in the government. The government was formed by the UDA. We cannot change that; it can only be changed during elections,” Nyong’o said.
Nyong’o’s statement comes shortly after ODM leader Raila Odinga made headlines by expressing support for the current administration. Raila spoke on Friday, August 8, during the burial of veteran women’s rights champion Phoebe Asiyo.
In his speech, Raila defended ODM’s decision to work with President Ruto and said the cooperation would extend beyond 2027. His words suggested a long-term partnership that surprised many political observers.
“When the right time comes, we will face Kenyans and tell them why we did this and where we want to go,” Raila declared.
He challenged critics who oppose his stance, saying, “I don’t have any doubt, you can make noise the way you want, but we will be able to move beyond 2027. I am confident we will move beyond 2027, and nobody should try to threaten us.”
These two positions from senior ODM leaders have created confusion among supporters. On one side, Nyong’o is promising a presidential candidate to face Ruto. On the other, Raila is showing warmth towards the government and hinting at a long political relationship.
Some political analysts believe ODM’s strategy could be deliberate, giving the party space to negotiate either a coalition deal or a strong independent campaign. The approach could also be a way to keep supporters hopeful while maintaining influence in national politics.
ODM has not yet revealed who will run for president in 2027. Raila has traditionally been the party’s flagbearer, but questions remain about whether he will contest again or pass the mantle to another leader.
The uncertainty has sparked speculation in political circles. Some insiders believe a new face could represent ODM, while others think Raila might still take the challenge despite his other ambitions.
President Ruto’s allies have welcomed ODM’s involvement in national dialogue, calling it a sign of political maturity. At the same time, they have said they are ready to face any challenger in 2027.
For ODM, the challenge will be convincing supporters that it remains a strong opposition party while working with the government on selected issues. Some see this as a smart balance, while others view it as a mixed message that could weaken their base.
With just two years to go before the elections, the political scene is set for more drama. Whether ODM sticks to its plan or changes course will depend on behind-the-scenes talks, public opinion, and shifting alliances.
For now, one thing is certain, ODM has made the first big move towards 2027, and Kenya’s political stage is already heating up.
