Political analyst Kepher Ojijo has predicted that a possible political alliance between President William Ruto and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could mark a turning point in Kenya’s political history ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on Radio Generation on Wednesday, Ojijo said the proposed partnership, if realized, would “redefine Kenya’s power dynamics” by merging UDA’s grassroots mobilisation with ODM’s national reach.
He suggested that such an alliance could produce an unprecedented ticket, one that bridges ideological divides and responds to growing calls for inclusivity and gender balance in top leadership.
Ojijo argued that President Ruto may consider Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga as a possible running mate to appeal to a broader constituency, especially women and young voters.
“Ruto may tap Gladys Wanga as a strategic running mate to strengthen his appeal among women and youth voters,” he said. “That could mark a historic shift in Kenya’s political landscape, blending UDA’s grassroots influence with ODM’s national reach.”
He added that Wanga’s leadership record and loyalty make her one of the most formidable political figures in the country today.
“Gladys Wanga is a woman who moves like a warrior,” Ojijo said. “She has been an astute loyalist and has achieved against all odds. Raila Odinga saw so much quality in her that he trusted her to be the chair of the ODM national board, which cannot be by luck.”
Ojijo said Wanga’s steady rise from student leadership to county governance demonstrates her capability and vision. “From her days as the first female Secretary-General of KUSA to becoming the first woman MP for Homa Bay county and later the first female governor of Homa Bay, Wanga’s journey tells of determination and purpose,” he added.
According to Ojijo, Ruto’s “hustler” narrative that propelled him to victory in 2022 may not resonate as strongly in 2027, and a gender-focused campaign could provide the new momentum he needs.
“The ‘hustler’ youth narrative may not work for him this time around,” he observed. “But he can ride on women’s empowerment and inclusivity,an area he has never fully tested.”
Ojijo further noted that while internal realignments within ODM might not immediately affect the 2027 elections, their long-term impact could be significant.
“Even if there are defections today, they may not shift much now,” he said. “But the effects will be felt in the election after 2027 general elections,”he said.
He added that Ruto “desperately needs someone like Wanga,young, energetic, and relatable to help him reconnect with a skeptical electorate.”
On March 8, 2025, UDA and ODM signed a joint framework agreement at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre to work together and confront the country's socio-economic and political challenges.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) reaffirmed its commitment to remain part of the broad-based government until 2027.
In a statement released by the party’s Central Committee on October 27, 2025, ODM said its participation in the current administration is guided by a ten-point agenda agreed upon to promote unity and development across the country.
“We reiterate the commitment of the Party to the broad-based government until 2027, a relationship guided by the ten-point agenda entered into for the sake of peace and stability of the country,” the committee said.
The statement comes amid ongoing discussions within Kenya’s political landscape about the future of the broad-based government, which was mainly championed by late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.
