ODM National Treasurer Timothy Bosire has publicly called on former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to contest the 2027 presidential elections, saying the current political climate presents a real opportunity for him to clinch the presidency.
Speaking during the funeral of Dr. Francis Ngaru — husband to former Thika Mayor Mumbi Ngaru — Bosire praised Raila as a visionary leader who could transform Kenya’s future.
“I have walked this journey with Raila Amollo Odinga, a man of great character and nature who can provide the required leadership in this country,” Bosire told mourners in the Mt. Kenya region. “Despite previous opposition here, I believe this region has learnt lessons and will vote differently if Raila runs in 2027.”
Bosire, who earlier turned down President William Ruto’s appointment as NTSA board chair, reaffirmed his support for Raila’s leadership, saying Kenyans were once again thinking seriously about the ODM leader’s presidential bid.
However, not all leaders agreed with Bosire’s call. Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, who also attended the funeral, urged caution and asked leaders not to pressure Raila into the 2027 race.
“Let us not pressure him. Let Raila lead us, not us lead him,” Passaris said, emphasizing the importance of allowing Raila to focus on uniting the country through the broad-based governance framework he has recently supported.
Raila Odinga, who is yet to declare his political intentions for 2027, has been working closely with President Ruto, particularly around his African Union Commission Chair bid — a move seen by analysts as a potential exit from local politics.
President Ruto’s senior economic advisor, Moses Kuria, also spoke highly of Raila, describing him as a strategic and visionary leader. However, Kuria steered clear of 2027 succession politics, choosing instead to highlight Raila’s contribution to national unity.
