ODM leader Raila Odinga.
By Peter Mwibanda.
NAIROBI, Kenya — When Raila Odinga told the nation he does not regret working with President William Ruto, it was more than a passing political comment — it sent ripples through Kenya’s political landscape.
For years, Odinga branded Ruto as unfit for the presidency, blaming him for economic hardships and linking him to graft scandals.
Now, standing alongside him in the so-called broad-based government, Odinga insists the alliance is in the interest of “saving the country.”
The question many Kenyans — and historians — will ask is whether this is an act of statesmanship or political connmanship.
An Alliance of Political Convenience.
Unexpected alliances are common in Kenya’s politics, but this one is notable for its timing.
Public dissatisfaction is at record highs, inflation continues to squeeze households, and youth-driven protests highlight rising unemployment.
Against this backdrop, Odinga’s decision to join forces with Ruto appears to defy the mood of his grassroots base.
Political analysts draw parallels to the 2018 “handshake” with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta — another deal Odinga framed as a unity move.
Critics later argued it weakened opposition oversight and solidified the ruling elite’s hold on power.
In this latest arrangement, Ruto gains legitimacy as his approval ratings slide, while Odinga secures political relevance ahead of the 2027 race.
The Contradiction Problem.
Odinga’s remarks now stand in contrast to his political record. He says he joined Ruto to save the country, yet indicators show the nation’s challenges remain acute:
Economic strain: The cost of living remains high, taxes are squeezing businesses, and the shilling remains under pressure.
Governance concerns: Corruption scandals continue to surface with little resolution.
Public discontent: Gen Z-led protests have deepened the gap between citizens and government.
Critics argue that if this is “saving the country,” the mission has failed before take-off.
Legacy at Stake
At 79, Odinga’s political horizon is defined more by legacy than ambition — at least on paper. Supporters frame the alliance as an effort to unite a polarized nation.
Skeptics see it as capitulation to the forces he once fought, risking a rewrite of his legacy from reformist to establishment insider.
Connmanship or Masterstroke?
Some view the move as a calculated play to retain influence, secure key appointments, and position himself as a kingmaker in 2027.
In Kenya’s politics, proximity to the presidency often brings access to resources, networks, and patronage — essential for survival.
Yet Odinga’s “no regrets” stance risks alienating his base, particularly those who endured police crackdowns during anti-government protests.
For them, the partnership feels like betrayal disguised as national unity.
The Verdict
Whether Odinga is playing the long game or has misread the public mood, the stakes are high.
If the broad-based government delivers on jobs, lowers the cost of living, and improves governance, he could be vindicated.
If not, history may judge the move as one of the boldest acts of political connmanship in the multi-party era.
For now, the question remains: Has Raila Odinga, the eternal opposition warrior, crossed the Rubicon from reformist to insider — and can he ever cross back?
