Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has revealed that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga would have been actively positioning himself for the 2027 presidential election if he were still alive, citing the changing political landscape and President William Ruto’s strained relationship with parts of the Mount Kenya region.
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In an interview published by The Standard on October 10, 2026, Sifuna reflected on his relationship with Raila, describing the veteran opposition leader as his political mentor and protector. He also explained how Raila’s death had changed his political life and increased the responsibilities he now faces.
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Why Sifuna Believes Raila Would Have Challenged Ruto in 2027
According to Sifuna, Raila would have viewed the political circumstances surrounding President Ruto as an opportunity to pursue the presidency again in 2027.
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The senator pointed specifically to Ruto’s deteriorating relationship with sections of the Mount Kenya region, which played a significant role in his victory in the 2022 General Election.
Sifuna expressed confidence that Raila would have been working towards another presidential bid had he survived. However, this was Sifuna’s assessment of what his former mentor might have done, rather than a confirmed statement from Raila himself.
Sifuna Opens Up About Raila’s Protection
Beyond the 2027 presidential race, Sifuna described Raila as a leader who protected him politically and helped shield him from difficult decisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The senator explained that Raila’s presence meant he did not have to shoulder every difficult party decision alone. When disagreements arose, Raila could intervene and take responsibility for resolving contentious issues.
Following Raila’s death, Sifuna said he had to assume greater responsibility for providing political direction, a transition that has proved challenging amid disagreements over ODM’s future and its relationship with Ruto’s administration.
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Raila’s death has left questions about ODM’s leadership, political identity and approach to the next general election.
Sifuna’s remarks highlight the uncertainty surrounding the party’s future direction, particularly the debate over whether ODM should maintain its independence or pursue closer cooperation with Ruto’s political camp.
His comments also reveal how he views the changing political landscape: he believes Raila would have continued pursuing his presidential ambitions rather than sitting out the 2027 contest.
