Ruto will still lose 2027 polls even with Raila's support- Sifuna

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has dismissed claims that President William Ruto could secure re-election in 2027, with Raila Odinga’s backing.

Speaking on Citizen TV on Thursday, Sifuna rejected the notion that ODM’s support would guarantee Ruto a second term.

“Even if ODM supports President Ruto in the 2027 elections, he will still lose. As a Party, we do not support the internal or external affairs of this nation. We will only form alliances with political parties that are like-minded…You are not going to force us into an alliance with incompetent people,” said Sifuna.

His remarks come amid speculation that Odinga could throw his weight behind Ruto following his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship. 

However, Sifuna claimed that even with Odinga’s support, Ruto would not win re-election.

He added that ODM is awaiting official communication from Odinga regarding its next political move.

Sifuna said that should Odinga decide to support the president, he will openly disagree.

“As ODM’s Sec-Gen, I have a global view of the country. I get calls from across the country that’s why I am conflicted. I cannot, in good conscience support a regime that is killing our people, that has destroyed lives, economy, and livelihood of Kenyans,” he added. 

Sifuna also dismissed the idea of  creating a political position for Odinga.

“It’s an insult to Raila Odinga to tell him that you can bring a constitutional amendment to create a seat for him”.

However, Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda took a different stance, saying ODM would back Ruto’s re-election bid.

“Baba will come back, and will support President Ruto in 2027. A re-election for the second term is neigh,” said Ojienda.

He urged the president to consolidate support in the Nyanza and Western regions to boost his chances in 2027.