Wetang’ula Urges ODM MPs to Back Ruto’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

Budalang’i, Kenya – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has appealed to legislators from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to rally behind President William Ruto’s re-election campaign in 2027, framing the move as a natural step following party leader Raila Odinga’s public endorsement of the president.

Speaking during a Sunday service at Harvest Center Fellowship Church in Port Victoria, Wetang’ula told the congregation that continued opposition to the Kenya Kwanza administration by ODM lawmakers would contradict Odinga’s own position. He urged MPs, including Budalang’i legislator Raphael Wanjala, to “join the second-term bandwagon” and embrace the growing political cooperation between Ruto and Odinga.

The Speaker commended Odinga’s history of placing national unity above political rivalry, citing his decision to form a coalition government with then-President Mwai Kibaki after the disputed 2007 general election and subsequent post-election unrest. According to Wetang’ula, that example demonstrates Odinga’s commitment to political stability over partisan interests.

Wanjala, who attended the service, said Odinga’s endorsement had eased tensions within the party, noting that it removed the political pressure on ODM members who chose to work with the president.

Wetang’ula’s remarks come amid visible divisions in ODM, with senior figures like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna continuing to criticise the government despite the newfound political cooperation. By calling for unity, the Speaker signalled an intention to consolidate ODM support behind the Kenya Kwanza administration well ahead of the 2027 polls, potentially reshaping coalition politics and election strategies in the coming years.