President William Ruto has assured members of the Orange Democratic Movement
(ODM) that the government will continue to support and strengthen the party,
saying it remains an essential pillar of Kenya’s democracy.
Speaking during the burial service of former
Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of
Science and Technology in Bondo, Siaya County, President Ruto said ODM must
remain united and strong as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election.
“I want to tell you, we will respect ODM. We
will support you to hold ODM together,” Ruto said.
“ODM must be strong as we go to 2027
because that is the way we are going to have a strong government.”
The President emphasized the importance of
strong political parties in promoting democracy, national unity, and
accountability.
He said that without stable political institutions, the country cannot
sustain meaningful development or good governance.
“Political parties are the foundations of any
meaningful democracy,” Ruto said.
“The future of ODM, its strength, and
its well-being matter a great deal to me because that is how we are going to
have a strong nation, by having strong, vibrant, national political parties.”
Ruto described ODM as a party with deep
national roots and a rich history of struggle for justice and reform, noting
that its founder, Raila Odinga, played a central role in shaping Kenya’s
democratic journey.
He assured ODM supporters that the government
will continue to recognize and respect their role in national politics.
“We will either form the next government or be
part of the next government. That is what we can do,” the President declared,
drawing applause from mourners gathered at the university grounds.
The Head of State’s remarks were seen as an
effort to consolidate unity and cooperation between his administration and the
ODM party following the recent broad-based government arrangement that included
Raila’s allies.
Ruto said Raila’s vision for a peaceful,
democratic, and inclusive Kenya should guide the country beyond his lifetime.
“Raila’s contribution to the unity of our
nation and the fight for democracy will not be forgotten,” Ruto said. “Our
responsibility now is to build on that foundation and make Kenya stronger.”
The burial service, attended by dignitaries
from across Africa, served as a national moment of reflection, not only on
Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy but also on the future of Kenya’s political
landscape.
