Raila Odinga Open to Backing Ruto or Kalonzo in 2027 Poll: ‘Can Support Anybody’
Nairobi – ODM leader Raila Odinga has hinted at the possibility of supporting either President William Ruto or Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka in the 2027 presidential election, stating he is currently focused on strengthening his party and that he has not made any decision regarding his candidacy.
Speaking during a televised interview on NTV on Sunday, July 20, Raila explained that it’s still too early to discuss the 2027 General Election.
“We’re in 2025, and it’s too early to talk about 2027. We’ve said we are in the broad-based government until 2027, but we haven’t said we shall work with UDA beyond 2027,” Raila said.
While he maintained that he is content with helping ODM regain its strength, Raila left the door open for supporting other candidates.
“I have not said that I’m running for presidency in 2027. I don’t have to run; I can support somebody else. Right now, I’m more interested in reorganizing ODM into a strong political party,” he said.
Raila also addressed the remarks by some ODM leaders who have publicly supported Ruto’s potential reelection bid, saying those views are personal and not reflective of the party’s official position.
“The individuals in ODM already speaking about supporting William Ruto in 2027 are making those statements as individuals, and they’re entitled to it,” he stated.
On whether he might back Kalonzo Musyoka, Raila confirmed they remain close allies but said the Wiper leader has not officially requested his support.
“Me and Steve (Kalonzo Musyoka) are friends. We share a number of issues, and I’ve got a lot of respect for him. He has not asked me for my support,” Raila said.
Meanwhile, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has challenged President Ruto to drop his 2027 ambitions and instead back Raila, claiming Ruto’s administration only gained traction after Raila joined the fold. Sifuna insisted it would be fair for the president to reciprocate the goodwill.
Investigations and political consultations are expected to intensify as the country moves closer to the 2027 election season.
In other news:Raila Odinga Says 2027 Presidential Bid Still Undecided, Focused on Strengthening ODM
Raila Odinga Open to Backing Ruto or Kalonzo in 2027 Poll: ‘Can Support Anybody’