Raila Shocks Kenya: ‘I’ll Support Ruto Until 2027. But That’s It!

Raila Odinga has surprised many Kenyans by announcing that he will support President William Ruto’s government, at least until 2027. Speaking from his Karen home on Sunday, Raila made it clear that this support is only temporary and meant to help the country avoid chaos. 

In an exclusive interview with NTV, Raila said Kenya was very close to a national crisis after last year’s deadly protests. These protests were led by angry youths who were demanding justice, better governance, and an end to police brutality.  

Raila explained that this collaboration with the ruling government is not a political marriage but a short-term plan for peace. 

“We did not say we are joining UDA forever. This arrangement ends in 2027. After that, our party will decide what to do next,” Raila said firmly. He also stressed that his political future will be decided by his party members, not just himself. 

Odinga, who leads the ODM party and the Azimio coalition, said the decision to support Ruto’s administration came after serious thinking. In 2023, the country saw violent clashes between protestors and police. Raila said over 70 people died, and the government blocked all efforts to publicly mourn them. 

“The government responded to peaceful protests with brutality,” Raila said. “We tried to hold memorials for the victims, but no judge allowed us. In the end, we had to do it in silence.” 

According to Raila, the country was at risk of sinking into deeper unrest. That’s when both sides decided to put politics aside and work together to bring calm. “We had to do something to stop the bloodshed. Kenya is more important than political fights,” Raila explained. 

However, he was clear that this does not mean he is giving up on holding the government accountable. Raila said he will continue to push for promises to be fulfilled—like reducing the high cost of living and ending corruption. 

Raila also warned those who think he has joined UDA for good. “We are only working together until 2027. After that, the future is open,” he repeated. His message seemed to be a direct reply to critics who accused him of betraying his supporters. 

The former Prime Minister said the partnership was a decision by the larger opposition coalition, not a one-man show. He explained that discussions were held and the majority agreed it was necessary to put Kenya first. 

Odinga explained that the protests in 2023 were not just noise. “We were raising real issues, like electoral justice and economic suffering. The people had a right to be heard,” he said. But he also noted that the response from the police made things worse. 

Raila believes the government now has a chance to prove itself by keeping promises made to the people. “This is their time to work. We’ll wait and see what they deliver. Then in 2027, we will talk politics again,” he said. 

The move has caused mixed reactions across the political space. Some see Raila’s decision as wise, while others feel confused or even betrayed. But Raila insists that it’s all for peace and stability. 

“This country was burning. We had to stop it,” he said. “No one wins in a broken Kenya.” 

He also stated that ODM and other Azimio partners will remain active and vocal during this period. “Being in the same government does not mean we are silent. We are watching,” Raila said. 

As the 2027 elections approach, many Kenyans will be closely watching what happens next. Will the government deliver on its promises? Will Raila’s gamble pay off? 

For now, one thing is clear: Raila Odinga has given President Ruto a rare gift, time. Time to fix what is broken. But that gift expires in 2027. 

By choosing peace over protest, for now, Raila has added a new chapter to Kenya’s political story. The big question is: how will it end?