Mbadi: Only Raila can give ODM directions ahead of 2027
By Isaac Mutia, July 29, 2025Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has stated that it is only Raila Odinga who can give direction to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in 2027.
This appears to reflect a perspective on the leadership and future of the party, a prominent Kenyan political outfit.
“Regrettably, of late, we’ve heard someone claiming to be giving 2027 direction on behalf of ODM. I’m telling him he’s deluding himself. Only Raila Odinga can give ODM direction in 2027,” he said in an X post on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
So far, Mbadi has been a loyal ally of Raila and has held significant roles, including MP for Suba South and Minority Leader in the National Assembly.
Raila’s roles
Raila, often referred to as “Baba,” has been the de facto leader of ODM since its formation, steering it through multiple election cycles (2007, 2013, 2017, 2022). His influence was recently underscored by his candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairperson in early 2025, though he lost to Mahamoud Ali Youssouf. Despite this, his political stature remains strong, particularly within ODM and its coalition.
The assertion that only Raila can give ODM direction in 2027 suggests Mbadi believes Raila’s leadership is indispensable, especially as the party prepares for the next general election.
Political implications
The 2027 Kenyan general election is two years away, and ODM’s strategy will likely hinge on Raila’s decision—whether to run again, retire, or endorse a successor. His “handshake” with Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018 and subsequent government collaboration have broadened his influence but also sparked internal debates about ODM’s opposition identity.
Mbadi’s statement might be a strategic move to consolidate support around Raila, countering any emerging leadership challenges within ODM.