Raila Warned, Told What'll Happen If He Dares to Announce Ruto Tosha In 2027

As ODM party leader Raila Odinga faces declining popularity, the former prime minister is also facing resistance from a new generation of voters, Gen Z, who have no historical loyalty to political parties or leaders.

This group appears independent-minded and is unmoved by tribal politics or traditional opposition dynamics.

“Gen Z do not follow leaders because of history or past struggles. They vote based on issues that directly affect them, such as jobs, social justice, and accountability,” said Kimani, who is a policy and legal expert. 

The youth-led protests of July 2024 against the Finance Bill, where Raila and other politicians were ignored, clearly demonstrated that Gen Z has become a force beyond the control of political parties.

Meanwhile, the opposition has started regrouping without Raila, with some branding him a traitor, while leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and younger politicians like Babu Owino and Edwin Sifuna appear to be positioning themselves politically without relying on his influence.

“We are seeing a new generation of politicians emerging with a different approach. This is a major challenge for Raila, especially since he is now perceived as part of the establishment he used to oppose,” Professor Macharia Munene of the United States International University (USIU) told a political journal this week.

If Raila decides to back Ruto in 2027, it will not be as easy as it was in the past when his endorsement alone was enough to shift political tides.

Not only has his popularity declined, but he will also have to win over young voters, reunite skeptical supporters and communities, and counter the opposition forming outside his shadow.

According to political analyst Dr. Isaac Gichuki, Kenyans are increasingly voting based on interests rather than ethnic loyalty.

He says voters are now seeking leaders who can engage constructively rather than following the ‘our person’ mentality.

He notes that Raila’s popularity has waned even in his former strongholds, especially in Western Kenya and the Coast.

“The political alliance between Raila and President William Ruto has disrupted Raila’s regional loyalty. He has lost parts of Western Kenya, among other areas,” he said.

Professor Macharia Munene concurs, citing historical examples such as Mwai Kibaki’s 2002 victory and Uhuru Kenyatta’s rejected ‘project’ status in 2022.

“Voting based on tribe is mere propaganda. People vote for whoever they see as the better option,” Prof. Macharia said.