Double talk: Inside the curious case of Raila anti-Ruto critics who secretly cozy up to the President

In Kenya’s turbulent political theater, where allegiances often shift with the wind, a peculiar paradox is playing out within the ODM faction.
Publicly, many of Raila Odinga’s allies are some of the most vocal critics of President William Ruto’s administration. But behind closed doors, sources reveal a different story—one of backroom deals, quiet meetings, and growing political flirtations.
As Kenya edges closer to the 2027 elections, the stakes are only getting higher. Raila Odinga is still the most formidable opposition figure in the country, but his coalition appears to be grappling with internal rot. Meanwhile, President Ruto’s calculated charm offensive is reshaping the political landscape in real time.
Whether the “critics by day, loyalists by night” strategy will bear long-term fruit—or spark an implosion in the opposition—remains to be seen. But for now, Kenya is once again watching a familiar political dance: one where the steps are choreographed in public, but the real moves happen when the cameras are off.Yet, in the corridors of power and whispers within Parliament, a narrative of betrayal is gaining traction.
“During the day, they chant ‘Ruto must go.’ But at night, they are negotiating tenders, government appointments, and political protection,” an insider close to Raila’s inner circle told Kurunzi News requesting anonymity for fear of political reprisal.
 Crossing the aisle quietly
The list of those suspected of playing both sides is growing. Some MPs have been seen attending state functions or flying under the radar to State House meetings. Others have softened their once-harsh rhetoric against the President, opting for vague statements or conspicuous silence.
One vocal ODM MP, who just last year declared that “Ruto is illegitimate and must be resisted,” was recently seen at a state-sponsored economic forum, sharing a stage with Cabinet Secretaries. When asked, the MP dismissed it as a “national duty” above politics.
Political analysts say this is a classic case of “survival politics.”
“Kenyan politicians are not necessarily driven by ideology. They are driven by access to power and resources,” says Lawyer Willis Otieno“When they sense Raila’s influence waning or uncertainty around 2027, they hedge their bets.
Meanwhile, President Ruto seems to be playing the long game. Instead of bulldozing the opposition, he appears to be chipping away at its core—one handshake at a time.
Sources within Kenya Kwanza suggest that Ruto’s team is deliberately wooing certain opposition figures with the promise of development funds for their constituencies, favorable regulatory environments for business allies, or simply a promise of political safety.
It’s a strategy reminiscent of the “Handshake Era” under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, only this time, the roles are reversed—and the game subtler.
“We don’t need everyone to cross officially,” a Kenya Kwanza strategist remarked. “We just need them to stop attacking us, or better, confuse their followers with mixed messaging.”
For Raila Odinga, the situation presents a major headache. The Azimio coalition thrives on unity and moral authority as the conscience of the nation. If the perception of double-dealing festers, it threatens to erode public trust and scatter his base.
In recent closed-door meetings, Raila reportedly expressed frustration over MPs “sleeping with the enemy.” But without hard evidence or the political will to discipline them, his hands may be tied.
“He’s walking a tightrope,” noted political commentator Herman Manyora “If he cracks down too hard, he risks a mass exodus. If he stays silent, he loses control of the narrative.”
This political ambiguity also reflects a broader disillusionment among voters. After months of protests, economic hardships, and a seemingly unresponsive government, many Kenyans are beginning to question whether the opposition still has the stamina—or sincerity—to push for change.
“I used to believe in Azimio,” said Sharon Achieng, a university student in Nairobi. “But now it feels like it’s just another club of elites playing musical chairs. One day they shout, the next they shake hands.”
The opposition’s messaging is also becoming harder to decode. With key figures offering contradicting statements, supporters are often left confused. Is the coalition still committed to mass action? Is dialogue with Ruto off the table? Or is a grand bargain brewing in the shadows?