Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has once again demonstrated his political dexterity by forging an alliance with President William Ruto—a move that has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political landscape.
While some critics have labeled it a betrayal, a deeper analysis reveals that Odinga’s decision is rooted in national stability and long-term strategy rather than personal gain.
Last Friday, Odinga and Ruto publicly formalized their newfound political relationship, outlining a pact that, if implemented in good faith, could benefit the nation.
However, this handshake has not been received well by everyone. A section of politicians and citizens—particularly those who once opposed Raila—have taken to social media, branding him a traitor who has abandoned the opposition to serve his own interests.
Kenyan politics is notorious for its fluidity, but the hypocrisy surrounding this latest development is striking. Raila Odinga has long been the face of opposition, fighting successive governments to uphold democracy and good governance.
Ironically, the same individuals who once demonized him as an obstacle to progress are now demanding that he remain in opposition to fight the very administration they overwhelmingly voted for in 2022.
Mount Kenya, which was at the forefront of supporting Ruto, is now leading the charge in criticizing Odinga for his alliance with the President.
Yet, it was this very region that resisted any form of engagement with Odinga when he was pushing for electoral justice after the 2022 elections.
The irony is inescapable—those who dismissed his protests now expect him to champion their grievances against the same government they installed.
Kenya’s economic crisis and political instability have necessitated cooperation rather than endless confrontations. When Raila was mobilizing protests against the government, many accused him of seeking power through the backdoor. Now that he has opted for dialogue, the same people claim he has sold out. This contradiction raises the question: What do Kenyans really want?
It is also important to note that opposition is not Raila’s personal responsibility.
Kenya has other opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and even former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who have positioned themselves as anti-Ruto forces.
Instead of blaming Odinga for engaging with the President, these leaders should step up and provide alternative leadership if they truly believe in holding the government accountable.
Raila’s move also plays into the long-term political dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections. By aligning himself with Ruto, he has strategically positioned himself in the power matrix, ensuring he remains relevant in Kenya’s evolving political space.
His critics must also acknowledge that the fight for democracy and economic justice is not a one-man mission. If they are dissatisfied with his new approach, they should take up the mantle and lead protests instead of lamenting on social media.
At 80 years old, Raila has nothing left to prove. He has spent decades fighting for democracy, freedom of expression, and governance reforms.
If his reward for this lifelong struggle was to be elected president, then those who admire his leadership should have voted for him in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, or 2022. Yet, despite rejecting him at the ballot box, they still expect him to serve as the eternal opposition leader.
Kenya’s political landscape is shifting, and those who fail to adapt will be left behind. Raila Odinga’s decision to work with President Ruto is not a betrayal but a strategic calculation.
Instead of blaming him, opposition leaders should focus on crafting a compelling alternative vision that can challenge Ruto in 2027.
For now, the political chessboard is being rearranged, and only time will tell who emerges as the ultimate winner.
