Energy CS Wandayi Says Ruto and ODM Share Common Ideological Ground

Nairobi, Kenya – September 25, 2025 (EAT).

Cabinet Secretary for Energy Opiyo Wandayi has stated that President William Ruto and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) share a common ideological foundation, emphasizing that previous confrontations between the two sides were primarily political rather than ideological.

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Speaking during a live interview on Thursday, Wandayi explained that the rivalry between Ruto and ODM leaders in the past stemmed from their positions on opposite sides of Kenya’s political divide.

“I don’t think it is true to say that I’m working with someone we haven’t worked with before,” he said. “Criticising was normal because anytime we were in different camps, political formations would criticise one another. But remember, President William Ruto was a founder of ODM, my current party. Ideologically speaking, President William Ruto and ODM are certainly very aligned.”

The CS added that since joining the same political coalition, he has encountered no difficulty working with the Head of State, contrary to public expectations.

Context and Background

• Historical Rivalry: President Ruto was one of ODM’s founding members before leaving to join the Jubilee coalition in 2013, later forming the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2022 elections.

• Broad-Based Government: ODM and UDA entered into a broad-based government arrangement in March 2025, marking a significant political realignment aimed at national unity and policy stability.

• Energy Sector Reforms: Wandayi now serves in a government prioritizing energy transition, renewable energy investment, and expansion of the national grid—policies that require cross-party cooperation.

Stakeholder Reactions

• Political Analysts: Observers note that Wandayi’s remarks may signal growing cohesion within the ruling coalition as it prepares for the 2027 General Election.

• ODM Loyalists: Some party members have welcomed the unity message but remain cautious about its long-term implications for ODM’s independence.

• Government Insiders: Officials see the ODM–UDA cooperation as essential for legislative harmony and policy execution.

Risks and Implications

• Public Perception: Critics argue that too much political alignment may weaken opposition voices and accountability.

• Coalition Dynamics: Future ideological disputes could still emerge if policy priorities shift before 2027.

• Economic Policy: Stronger ties may accelerate energy reforms, infrastructure projects, and foreign investment agreements.

What We Don’t Yet Know

• Whether ODM will maintain this political alignment through the next election cycle.

• How this cooperation will influence legislative votes on key reforms.

• If this signals a broader coalition merger ahead of 2027.

Timeline

• March 2025: ODM and UDA enter into broad-based government arrangement.

• September 2025: Wandayi confirms ideological alignment with President Ruto during live interview.

What to Watch

• Possible joint policy rollouts on energy and infrastructure.

• ODM’s internal reactions ahead of its 20th anniversary celebrations.

• Coalition agreements as the 2027 campaign season nears.