Unity or Betrayal? Raila Odinga alliance with President Ruto divides supporters

In a move that has sent shockwaves through political landscape, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has entered into a pact with President William Ruto, aiming to collaborate on critical government policies.
This unprecedented alliance has elicited a spectrum of reactions, from staunch support to vehement opposition, reflecting the nation’s deep political divisions.
On 7 March 2025, at Nairobi’s Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Odinga and Ruto formalized their agreement amidst a charged atmosphere reminiscent of campaign rallies.
The leaders emphasized that this was not the formation of a new political coalition but a strategic partnership to address pressing national issues. Odinga stated that the pact would “help build the country,” while Ruto lauded Odinga for making “difficult decisions” in the interest of Kenyans.
Supporters reactions: A mixed bag
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions across the country. In Odinga’s traditional strongholds of Nyanza and Western regions, some residents expressed optimism, believing the union could bring development to their areas. For instance, in Kisumu, a section of the populace welcomed the truce, hoping it would lead to infrastructural improvements and economic growth.
However, not all supporters share this enthusiasm. In Kisii, a region that has historically backed Odinga, the former Prime Minister faced an unexpected backlash. During a visit to the area, he was met with chants of “Raila must go! Ruto must go!” from a rowdy crowd, signaling a significant shift in sentiment among his base.
Political analysts and opposition figures have voiced concerns over the implications of this alliance.
Nanjala Nyabola, a political analyst, questioned the future of parliamentary opposition, asking, “So basically there’s no opposition party in parliament in Kenya?” Similarly, Wiper Democratic Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka described the pact as “the biggest betrayal of Kenyans,” suggesting that it undermines the essence of democratic checks and balances.
For President Ruto, this alliance appears to be a calculated move to consolidate power and navigate political challenges. Facing criticism and a youth-led revolt last year, Ruto’s engagement with Odinga provides a semblance of national unity and may help quell dissent in opposition strongholds.
However, this partnership comes at a cost, as Ruto may have to accommodate Odinga’s allies within the government, potentially complicating his administration’s dynamics.
The Ruto-Odinga pact has far-reaching implications for Kenya’s political landscape:With Odinga collaborating with the government, there is a perceived void in the opposition, raising concerns about the lack of robust checks on executive power.
The alliance could reshape voter alignments ahead of future elections. Odinga’s support base might feel alienated, leading to unpredictable voting patterns. The partnership may facilitate smoother implementation of government policies, but it also risks sidelining alternative viewpoints essential for a healthy democracy.