Millie Odhiambo: It's not automatic we support Ruto in 2027, he can back Raila

Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo/SCREENGRAB

Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has asserted that support for President William Ruto in the upcoming 2027 general election is not guaranteed, emphasising that the political equation remains open and subject to negotiation.

The outspoken ODM legislator dismissed any assumption that the opposition will automatically align with the President in the next election cycle.

Instead, she floated the idea that President Ruto could be equally asked to support Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“It’s not automatic that it is a must that it is Ruto that we will support in 2027. We can also ask the President to support Raila. It is an issue of negotiation,” Millie said.

Her remarks come amid ongoing talks about a broad-based government and a new spirit of political cooperation between the former rivals.

While the dialogue has led to speculation about potential realignments, Millie made it clear that any collaboration must reflect mutual interests, not political convenience.

The legislator came to the defence of the ODM leader, stating Raila has had to make tough decisions in the past year with the country’s best interests at heart.

She insisted Raila should not be vilified for prioritising peace and national cohesion during difficult political moments.

“We went through difficult times. So, for him to make a choice to move the country forward, nobody should blame him for that,” she said.

Millie expressed her unwavering support for Raila and praised his decision to embrace dialogue in the face of growing political pressure.

She said his actions reflected statesmanship and a long-term commitment to the nation.

According to Millie, the broad-based government,  between Kenya Kwanza and opposition leaders, is a crucial step toward stabilising the country and fostering inclusive governance.

With negotiations underway, Millie made it clear that ODM will not be boxed into pre-determined support, and that Raila still remains a viable candidate deserving of national backing, even from the President himself.