Is a Ruto-Raila Alliance on the Horizon? Mudavadi Sparks Rumors

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has alluded to a potential reconciliation between President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga.

Mudavadi, in his address at Bondo, dropped a hint about some upcoming news that would bring delight to the locals. Although he refrained from disclosing any specifics, his cryptic statement was met with enthusiastic applause from the assembled crowd. Interestingly, elected officials from the ODM party, despite receiving official invitations, opted not to partake in the occasion.

Bondo residents have understood Mudavadi's remarks as a potential resolution between Ruto and Odinga or the possibility of Odinga obtaining a highly respected role in the African Union. As the current term of the African Union Commission chairperson will end next year, member states have already started talks and efforts to secure the position. Reports suggest that Odinga has shown interest in the position. However, the current political situation requires candidates to be endorsed by their own government.

If President Ruto and Odinga form an alliance, it could worsen the already fragile Azimio coalition. Furthermore, such an alliance would strategically prevent Odinga from running in the 2027 election, leading to potential political shifts. This scenario would mirror the events of 2018, when Raila embraced President Uhuru Kenyatta, despite being defeated by him in two consecutive elections. Ultimately, the handshake between Mr Kenyatta and Mr Odinga resulted in the exclusion of Deputy President Ruto from the centre of power, leading to a significant fallout within the Jubilee government.