KENYA : A Political Shift is looming in the country as mergers, Consultations and foes turned friends convene to deliberate on their choice ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
One such anticipated move that political analysts are watching closely is a President William Ruto led Kenya-Kwanza and Raila Odinga led Azimio Coalition official 'Handshake'.
The Orange Democratic Movement Party (ODM) Leader Raila Odinga, has revealed what Kenyans should expect amidst reports that he could join forces with President Ruto ahead of the 2027 polls.
Speaking in Busia County during the 20th Anniversary of the ODM Party on Friday, February 28, Raila stated that his next political move would be based on the ideals and principles of the party.
According to Mr. Odinga, consultations would be done across the country to ensure that all his supporters give their views on what he should do.
Some of the issues he highlighted to be of interest ahead of the declaration were increased funding for counties, increased financing for health and anti-corruption efforts.
"We are not a party that just follows people, anyhow. We only follow people with a focus. The ODM party had its principles, and we have been fighting for Kenyans, and we shall continue doing that." Said Odinga.
"We want to ensure that the money is brought from the national government to the counties and the money need to be used well," he added.
This comes amidst Reports that the Former Prime Minister and the president are in Merger Talks after Ruto's support for Raila's bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson's seat, which he lost to Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti.
Mr Ruto, recently lauded the broad-based government inclusive of Opposition leaders, stating that the move is a pacesetter for the Country's transformation agenda.
Speaking in Mombasa after hosting former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Monday, February 24, the President, noted that they had closed ranks with the opposition leader, adding that they were keen on ensuring that they work together for Kenyans.
The Head of State further remarked that there would be more broadened consultations between the government and other parties in the political arena amidst talks of a UDA-ODM partnership ahead of 2027.
"We closed ranks as a country and focused on what we can do for Kenya - the things that require our collective effort," Ruto said.
"I must be grateful that the necessary political capital that is required to move transformative programmes in our country now exists courtesy of the broad-based government and we will continue to focus on policies and programs that will catapult our country to the next level." He added.
On Tuesday, the ODM party leader began his consultative meetings in Kisumu by engaging the youth.
"I will not confine myself to Nyanza alone. After this, I will visit other parts of Kenya," he said, announcing that before the end of next week, he will make a statement after concluding his consultation tour.
