- President William Ruto is facing new political challenges following Raila Odinga’s unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
- Despite Ruto’s full support, Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf won the election, triggering political realignments in Kenya.
- Odinga’s loss disrupts Ruto’s strategic plans for the 2027 elections, especially after his fallout with the Mount Kenya region following Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment.
- Former DP Gachagua has now invited Odinga to focus his energy on domestic politics, hinting at a possible alliance against Ruto in 2027.
Raila’s Defeat Alters Political Calculations
President Ruto had thrown his full weight behind Raila Odinga’s AUC bid, hoping for a political realignment that could secure him a smoother path to re-election in 2027.
Political analysts believe the move was meant to neutralize Odinga’s influence in Kenyan politics by positioning him for an international role.
Had Odinga won, he would have likely been absent from the 2027 ballot, allowing Ruto to consolidate his support base without major opposition. However, with Odinga still in the political arena, questions arise about whether he will contest in 2027 or retire from active politics.
Rift in Ruto’s Camp Amid Mount Kenya Fallout
Odinga’s loss comes at a time when Ruto’s relationship with the Mount Kenya region is under strain.
The impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua deepened divisions, leaving Ruto with a political vacuum to fill.
The initial plan appeared to involve Raila’s victory at the AU, which could have prevented him from running for president again.
However, with that plan disrupted, Ruto now faces an unpredictable political landscape, with potential opposition from both Odinga and a vengeful Gachagua.
Gachagua’s Call for Raila’s Support in 2027
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has seized the moment, calling on Raila to turn his focus back to Kenyan politics.
Following Odinga’s loss, Gachagua hinted at a possible alliance, suggesting that Raila still had “unfinished business” in Kenya.
“Baba Raila Odinga, you put on a brave fight and showed resilience. Africa needed you most, but God, in His own wisdom, found that Kenya still has unfinished business with you,” Gachagua said.
His remarks fuel speculation that Odinga could once again be at the center of Kenya’s 2027 political contest, potentially challenging Ruto’s grip on power.
Calls for Unity Amid Political Tensions
Following the election loss, Raila urged Kenyans not to blame Ruto, emphasizing that the president did everything possible to support his bid.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also defended intelligence chief Noordin Haji’s role, dismissing claims that internal factors led to the defeat.
Despite these reassurances, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Ruto and Odinga to work together to maintain national stability.
However, with new alliances taking shape, the question remains: Will Raila make another bid for the presidency in 2027, or will he finally step aside?
