A growing push from several Kenya Kwanza leaders is signalling a new political direction as they openly speak about a possible merger between the United Democratic Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement.
Their message is direct and revolves around building a stronger political force that they believe will guarantee President William Ruto a second term in 2027.
During an empowerment event held in Turbo, Uasin Gishu County, the leaders did not hold back in attacking the opposition, accusing them of relying on tribal politics instead of offering real solutions.
They insisted that the country needs unity and a coalition that can bring together different regions under one political roof.
Soy MP David Kiplagat became the centre of attention when he confidently told the gathering that discussions were already leaning toward a coalition between ODM and UDA.
He stated, “Wamesema acha rais akuja aingie ODM…so we can assure you ODM na UDA zitaform coalition ya kuchukua serikali 2027.” His remarks were a strong indication of the political mood among some leaders who now believe cooperation between the two major parties could make it easier for the ruling side to cement power.
According to them, the opposition should get ready for an intense political confrontation because the ruling team plans to fight hard to retain the presidency.
The argument for a longer stay in power was pushed even further by Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, who questioned why anyone would expect President Ruto to serve only one term. He told the crowd, “Mimi nawauliza, Jomo Kenyatta amekuwa miaka ngapi kwa presidency? Si amekuwa 15?
Na marehemu Moi, na huyu Kibaki, na Uhuru Kenyatta amekuwa ngapi? Sasa ata wewe ukikaa hapo unafikiri Ruto atafanya tano?” His comparison to previous administrations was meant to justify why Ruto should also be allowed enough time to deliver on his promises.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula supported this view, noting clearly that his political direction was already fixed.
“Sasa mimi nimeshika barabara na barabara ni William Ruto two-term,” he said.
The leaders intensified their attacks on opposition figures, accusing them of pretending to represent the interests of ordinary citizens while basing their campaigns on tribal divisions. Farouk Kibet, a close aide to the President, used a simple example to condemn tribal politics, stating, “Tuwe kama bodaboda, bodaboda hawana ukabila, anabeba Mkikuyu, anabeba Mkalenjin, anabeba Mluhya na Mjaluo.” His message was that ordinary Kenyans interact freely without discrimination, and political leaders should follow the same example.
Taita MP John Bwire echoed the same line of thought, dismissing those claiming to speak for the “ground.” He said, “Sasa hawa wakabila wanatoka Nyeri wanaenda Gilgil wanarudi Nyeri wanasema wanaskiza ground. Hiyo ni ground gani? Wakitaka kuskiza ground wakuje hapa Turbo saizi waskie ground ni two term.”
Leaders from Kericho County also joined in praising what they described as progress under the broad-based government.
Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai said, “Serikali ya broad-based iko sawasawa na tutaendelea na wao tukiwa pamoja,” to show their continued support. Kipkelion East MP Joseph Cherorot added that they were confident President Ruto would return to office in 2027 to keep driving government initiatives forward. He said, “Na tunajua mheshimiwa rais come 2027 ataingia katika kiti na apate kuendeleza mambo ya kazi, ujenzi wa manyumba, mambo ya SHA, mambo ya NYOTA.”
Overall, the message from the Turbo meeting was unified and clear. These leaders want a broader coalition, a united political front, and a strong campaign for Ruto’s second term. Their remarks set the stage for a heated political season ahead as the 2027 race continues to take shape.
