Oburu had earlier suggested that ODM, through its leaders appointed to key government positions, was effectively part of President William Ruto’s administration. However, Raila refuted this assertion, maintaining that ODM remains an opposition party despite its engagement with the government on select policy matters.
“I am not in government, I am outside government. Let them talk,” Raila stated, dismissing speculation that his party had formally joined Ruto’s administration. His comments come amid growing concerns within ODM ranks over the party’s political direction, especially after several of its senior members secured government appointments.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, a longtime ODM stalwart, has been at the center of the debate, with some party members arguing that his role in government signifies ODM’s indirect participation in governance. Oburu, in his remarks, urged Mbadi to ensure that ODM strongholds benefit from government development projects, further fueling speculation about the party’s alignment with Ruto’s administration.
Despite these internal disagreements, Raila has remained firm in his stance, emphasizing that ODM’s engagement with the government does not equate to a coalition or formal partnership. He likened the arrangement to governance models in other democracies, where opposition parties collaborate on specific policy issues without losing their independent status.
The debate over ODM’s position in government is expected to shape political narratives ahead of the 2027 elections, as Raila continues to navigate the complex dynamics of opposition politics while maintaining strategic engagements with the ruling administration.
Source: [The Star] (https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/realtime/2025-05-19-raila-dismisses-oburu-insists-odm-is-not-in-government)
