Political Rift Deepens as ODM Leaders Accuse Ruto Government of Undermining Devolution

A growing political rift threatens the stability of Kenya's broad-based government, as opposition leaders intensify their criticism of President William Ruto's administration.

They are accusing the administration of undermining devolution and constitutional gains. The immediate catalyst for the escalating tensions was a recent meeting between Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga and Godfrey Kanoti, leader of the newly formed Democratic National Alliance (DNA). The DNA party, which aims to challenge President Ruto in the 2027 elections, has emerged as a focal point for anti-Ruto forces. 

At its launch earlier this month, prominent opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, pledged to form a coalition reminiscent of the Narc alliance that unseated the KANU regime in 2002, signalling a united front against the current administration. While Mr. Odinga has characterised his discussion with Mr. Kanoti as a routine exchange on national issues and party governance, the gathering has ignited speculation about the opposition's strategy to consolidate power against Ruto. 

"We remain committed to pluralism of views and multi-party politics in general," Mr. Odinga stated, emphasising the importance of diverse perspectives in Kenya's democratic framework.

The broad-based government, initially lauded as a unifying force, has increasingly become a battleground for competing interests. ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo have adopted stringent stances, accusing the administration of undermining devolution and reversing constitutional gains. Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o, a senior ODM figure, has been particularly vocal, criticising the government for allegedly reverting to practices reminiscent of the pre-2010 constitutional order.

Prof. Nyong'o recently issued a strongly worded statement accusing the Ruto administration of prioritising "primitive accumulation schemes" over the principles of devolution and democratic governance. He highlights the national government's alleged encroachment on county responsibilities, particularly in the management of roads under the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERA). 

"The Council of Governors and all progressive forces in our Republic must be vigilant and resist this regression by all means necessary," he declared.

These remarks have drawn sharp criticism from President Ruto's allies, who view them as an attempt to undermine the administration's efforts to address pressing national issues. Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot accuses ODM leaders of engaging in political blackmail, citing their stance on the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) as an example. 

"It's not easy being William Samoei Ruto. ODM members, just like others in the National Assembly, want to retain the RMLF. Then, out of the blue, Prof. Nyong'o emerges, blaming the President—a poor attempt at blackmail," Mr. Cheruiyot asserted.

In response, Mr. Sifuna has defended ODM's position, emphasising the party's consistent support for devolution and constitutionalism. "The ODM Party leader, Baba, has consistently and publicly expressed his support for RMLF, CDF, and devolution. We’ve yet to hear similar clarity from UDA’s leadership," he countered.