Ngunjiri Wambugu explains Raila’s tactics of remaining relevant to Ruto
By Luke Oluoch, September 24, 2025Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjirir Wambugu has weighed in on Raila Odinga’s remarks about the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) fielding a presidential candidate in the 2027 polls.
Speaking to a local TV station on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Wambugu asserted that the development is a smart political calculation meant to ensure he and his party remain relevant inside the broad-based arrangement.
Wambugu notes that the proclamation aligns with his ‘enigma’ moniker, as he did not confirm whether he will run.
Staying relevance
“He (Raila) wants to make sure he remains relevant along with his party. He did not say if he would run or not,” he stated.
“He has been consistent, saying that whatever arrangement they have is up to 2027. He is basically telling his people we cannot make a new commitment until we have finished with this broad base. Raila has been called the enigma, and he proves to be one,” he stated.
The former MP’s remarks follow TIFA’s report that support for the Ruto-Raila broad-based government had increased by 7 per cent.
Wambugu has further revealed that the ODM leader’s stance is critical, as it keeps the Kenyan Kwanza side waiting as far as courting new allies goes.
“Ruto and his team now have to keep taking care of him. They cannot make a commitment when he is not done. Raila will keep reminding them we are broad-based, and if you want us to remain beyond 2027, keep taking care of us,” he added.
His remarks come a couple of days after Raila Odinga clarified the Orange party’s stance in the 2027 polls.
Speaking during an ODM parliamentary group meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025, Raila dismissed claims that his party may not front a candidate in the 2027 general election.
He further warned members against committing the party to agreements that had not been discussed or approved. He stressed that ODM had its own plan, and decisions about 2027 would be made when the time comes.
The warning came after Kisumu governor Anyang Nyong’o said that ODM will have a presidential candidate in 2027.
“So, wherever you are, don’t commit the party to some things which have not been discussed. Let those things be discussed first. We are ODM. Who’s told you that ODM will not have a candidate in 2027? Who has told you?” Raila said.