Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has stated that the outcome of Kenya’s 2027 presidential election is effectively predetermined, warning that continued uncertainty within the Orange Democratic Movement could deepen divisions as the country approaches the polls. His remarks come amid ongoing debate within the opposition party over whether to support President William Ruto’s bid for a second term.
Speaking on Saturday in Kabondo Kasipul Constituency, Mbadi urged ODM leaders and members to focus their long-term political strategy beyond the next General Election. According to the Treasury CS, President Ruto currently faces no serious challenger for 2027, making it necessary for ODM to concentrate its efforts on positioning itself for the 2032 contest.
Mbadi emphasized the importance of clarity and cohesion within the party, noting that mixed signals about ODM’s political direction risk polarising its base. He called on party leaders to be realistic about the current political landscape and to begin building alliances that would be relevant in the years ahead. In his view, strategic planning should not stop at short term arrangements tied to the next election cycle.
The former ODM chairperson also dismissed the idea that a new political figure could emerge in time to significantly alter the 2027 race. He argued that expectations of a last minute candidate capable of reshaping the contest are misleading and distract the party from necessary preparations for the future. Mbadi maintained that the present moment should be used to lay the groundwork for the 2032 elections through deliberate planning and cooperation.
Addressing internal dissent, Mbadi challenged ODM members who are uncomfortable with supporting President Ruto to openly declare their political preferences. He suggested that those opposed to backing the incumbent should consider aligning themselves with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua rather than prolonging internal disagreements. According to Mbadi, prolonged indecision only weakens the party’s ability to plan effectively.
He further outlined two broad political paths available to ODM. One option involves remaining within the current arrangement supporting President Ruto, allowing the party time to organise itself for a future electoral contest. The alternative, he said, would be to work with a united opposition grouping that includes figures such as Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka. Mbadi stressed that any viable strategy for 2032 would require collaboration rather than isolated efforts.
Mbadi also voiced frustration with ODM leaders who argue that the party’s support for President Ruto should end in 2027, despite the broad based government agreement previously established by the party’s former leader, the late Raila Odinga. He warned that failing to honour the agreement could strain relations between ODM and the President.
In his closing remarks, Mbadi underscored the importance of partnerships built on proven cooperation. He noted that ODM should only engage with political actors who have demonstrated the ability to work constructively with the party, reinforcing his call for consistency and strategic discipline as Kenya’s political landscape continues to evolve.
