Tuesday, October 28,
2025 - Embakasi North MP, James Gakuya, has claimed that President William
Ruto is strategically positioning himself to capitalize on the political vacuum
left by Raila Odinga’s exit from active politics, with a plan to penetrate
traditional ODM strongholds ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on October 28th during a televised
interview, Gakuya said Raila’s death has weakened ODM’s grip on regions like
Western Kenya, the Coast and Nyanza, creating an opportunity for Ruto to expand
his influence.
“ODM may still exist, but without Raila, its unity is
fractured. Western Kenya is now open ground,” he stated.
Gakuya argued that voter sentiment in Western Kenya had
already begun shifting even before Raila’s demise, with UDA making significant
inroads.
He predicted that the region could split politically, with
half leaning toward Ruto’s camp.
He further suggested that Ruto’s re-election strategy will
involve forging alliances with remnants of ODM and other regional players.
“Ruto will work tirelessly to bring ODM leaders to his side.”
“In Western Kenya, the contest may be between the opposition
and a hybrid ODM-UDA front,” Gakuya said.
Gakuya, a close ally of former Deputy President Rigathi
Gachagua, predicted fragmentation in ODM’s coastal and Nyanza bases, suggesting
that leaders like Hassan Joho may struggle to maintain influence.
“The Coast is up for grabs. Joho may not control the field
as he once did,” he said.
Despite the shifting landscape, Gakuya stressed that the
2027 election will be Ruto’s to lose.
“William will still
hold the reins. He’ll be ready for any battle,” he concluded.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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