Odinga’s political future is currently hanging in the balance as he navigates the delicate situation of supporting President Ruto’s dialogue initiative. His backing of the six-day debate proposed by Ruto has sparked criticism on social media, particularly from Gen-Z youth. This puts Odinga in a challenging position, especially as he is eyeing the Chairperson role of the African Union Commission (AUC) and needs Ruto’s support for this bid. The debate, set to begin on Monday, will involve 150 participants, including 50 youths and 100 various stakeholders.
In addition to the political crossroads he faces with Ruto’s initiative, Odinga is also dealing with internal party matters. There are succession issues within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with his deputies, Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, vying to succeed him should he secure the AUC position. Furthermore, there is ongoing debate within his party about whether they should be part of a proposed National Unity Government (GNU), a concept that has garnered support from some of his allies and government officials. The uncertainty surrounding these internal matters adds to Odinga’s political predicament.
The dynamics of Odinga’s current partnership with Ruto are also being closely scrutinized, especially in comparison to his previous arrangement with retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, known as the “Handshake.” While Odinga previously supported the government “from outside” during Kenyatta’s tenure, the current partnership with Ruto involves the direct inclusion of opposition leaders in the government. This shift in dynamics has led to speculation about the nature of Odinga’s cooperation with Ruto and how it will impact his political trajectory.