Nandi County Senator Samson Cherargei has asserted that Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga will not return to opposition politics after his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.

In a social media post on Monday, February 24, 2025, Cherargei shared a photo of President William Ruto and Raila Odinga in Mombasa, hinting at Odinga’s possible inclusion in the government.

He emphasized that Odinga’s vast experience and energy would contribute to Kenya’s prosperity and dismissed critics who expected him to rejoin the opposition.

“H.E Ruto with the incoming PM /PCS discussing the welfare our beloved country. Baba Raila Odinga has vast experience and energy to offer for prosperity for kenya. The Unity and peace of our nation shall spur the growth of our country. To naysayers ole wenu ! Raila shall not join them in doing Opposition politics and undermining the government. Mutangoja sana,” Cherargei declared.

Raila’s political future

Raila Odinga recently returned to Kenya from Dubai, where he had taken a short break after losing the AUC election to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf Ali. Upon his arrival, he announced that he would soon disclose his next political move.

Speaking in Mombasa on Monday, February 24, 2025, the seasoned politician stated that he would engage in consultations with his allies and supporters before making a final decision on his political direction. He highlighted his commitment to Kenya, affirming that he is available for the country’s service and will soon announce his next steps.

“We are available for Africa but more importantly we are availed for Kenya. I’m back home here. I’m going to meet with my friends and supporters. I’m going to consult widely for the next step forward and in due process we will confirm our way forward and announce it,” Raila said.

State of flux

The aftermath of Odinga’s AUC bid loss has sparked political debates and blame games across the nation, with leaders and citizens analyzing the factors behind his unexpected defeat. In response, some political figures have suggested integrating Odinga into the government by creating a new leadership position for him.

A section of Kenya Kwanza lawmakers has even proposed constitutional amendments to facilitate Odinga’s inclusion in President Ruto’s administration, citing his leadership skills and political experience as valuable assets for national growth.

On the other hand, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua publicly urged Odinga to return to opposition politics. Gachagua insisted that Odinga should resume his role as a government critic and continue advocating for change, emphasizing the need for a strong opposition to hold the current administration accountable.

“Africa needed you most, but God, in His wisdom, found that Kenya, your motherland, and indeed, we Kenyans, your beloved brothers and sisters, have unfinished business with you as their coveted son as we unshackle our country from recklessness,” Gachagua stated.