President William Ruto has waded into the ongoing debate on the future of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following the death of its long-time leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Speaking emotionally during the state burial ceremony held in Bondo, Siaya County, Ruto promised to safeguard Raila’s political legacy by supporting ODM, despite being the leader of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.

“I know I am the leader of UDA, but with the wishes of Raila, we will respect ODM and support you to hold ODM together,” Ruto lamented.

“ODM must be strong as we get to 2027 because that is the way we build a strong government,” Ruto told mourners, drawing applause from the crowd.

The President’s remarks marked a rare show of unity between Kenya’s two dominant political camps, UDA and ODM, that have for years stood on opposing ends of the political divide.

Also Read: The Story Behind the Marks on Raila Odinga’s Head and Mouth

Ruto: I Reached Out to Raila After the Elections

In his eulogy, President Ruto revealed that he reached out to Raila months after the disputed 2022 General Election, offering to “right the wrongs” that had been done to the veteran opposition leader.

“I can reveal that months after the elections, I reached out to Baba and offered to right the wrongs that had been done to him. I told him, without any conditions, that I would do whatever he wanted me to do,” Ruto disclosed.

He added that it was through that post-election dialogue that Raila and ODM found space in government affairs, noting, “That is why today, ODM is part and parcel of the government.”

The revelation gave fresh insight into the behind-the-scenes reconciliation that has characterized the country’s political calm in recent months.

“Either Raila or His Student Would Lead Kenya”

In one of the most emotional parts of his speech, Ruto said he was never anxious about the outcome of the 2022 presidential election, since he knew Kenya would still be in Raila’s hands, directly or through him.

“I was not worried, and it did not matter to me what the outcome of the 2022 presidential election would be, because either Raila Odinga was going to win, or his political student, William Ruto,” he declared.

The President acknowledged Raila as a political mentor who had played a major role in shaping his leadership path.

“I got to know Raila Odinga when I was elected as the MP for Eldoret North in 1997. I can confidently say that Raila was a political engineer, and among his many students was yours truly, William Ruto. I am proud that a man he mentored is today Kenya’s president,” Ruto added.

His remarks highlighted the respect and personal admiration he held for Raila despite their fierce political rivalry in past elections.

Also Read: Why Raila Odinga’s Baptism in the Anglican Church Was First Rejected

Nation in Mourning as Ruto Praises Raila’s Legacy

The Head of State also paid glowing tribute to Raila, describing him as a national icon whose influence transcended politics.

“Kenya is flowing with floods of grief. The foundations are shaken by the stomping footsteps of mourners. The soul of our nation aches at the loss of Raila Odinga, a man many fondly referred to as the people’s president,” Ruto said.

He further urged Kenyans to emulate Raila’s courage, vision, and commitment to democracy, saying the best way to honour him was to preserve unity and continue building the nation he fought for.

Political Realignment After Raila’s Death

President Ruto’s pronouncements are expected to shape the country’s political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

His pledge to “respect and support ODM” signals a possible softening of political hostilities and a new phase of cooperation between UDA and ODM leaders.

Observers say the gesture could also influence succession politics within ODM, as members seek to uphold Raila’s ideals and maintain party cohesion.

As Kenya continues to mourn, Ruto’s remarks underscore Raila Odinga’s towering political legacy, one that continues to influence the nation’s future even in death.

President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during the signing of a political pact at KICC on March 7, 2025. PHOTO/PCS.