Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has intensified his push for ODM leader Raila Odinga to be brought into government, in his call for the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report.

This appeal comes amid talks on potential governance reforms following Raila’s unsuccessful bid for the chairperson position of the African Union Commission.

Speaking during a Senate session on February 19, 2025, Cherargei argued that Raila’s long track record in championing the rule of law makes him a crucial figure in Kenya’s political landscape.

He proposed that Raila should be given the position of Prime Minister or Prime Cabinet Secretary to assist in strengthening the broad-based government.

“When Raila comes we can use him. He is an elder statesman and under the full implementation of NADCO, we must make Raila Odinga the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya or even the Prime Cabinet Secretary. He must be given that position to assist in expanding, deepening and widening the broad-based government and stability of this country,” Cherargei stated.

The Nandi Senator further emphasized that Raila’s leadership and expertise are critical for shaping the future of Kenyan governance.

He expressed confidence that with Raila’s support, President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027 would be secured by an overwhelming majority.

“I want to assure you that with the support of Raila Amollo Odinga, William Ruto will be re-elected by over 80% of the vote… This is a broad-based government, and may it long live under the leadership of William Ruto and Raila Odinga,” Cherargei affirmed.

NADCO report proposals

Cherargei also indicated that the NADCO framework will include provisions for other opposition politicians who may lose in the 2027 elections.

“There’s already a seat where people like Wajackoya and Kalonzo, who will lose in 2027 after Ruto is re-elected with Raila’s support, will be accommodated. We will finance them, give them an office, official cars, and ensure they sit either in the National Assembly or Senate” he said.

The senator argued these positions would provide a formal platform for opposition leaders to constructively critique the government.

“We want to stop seeing sore losers shouting in town centres and funerals. We want them to come to the floor of the House and critique the government properly,” he stated.

Raila’s political future

In a media interview on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Kitui Central Member of Parliament (MP) Makali Mulu weighed in on the debate over Raila’s political future following his unsuccessful AUC bid urging him to join the government.

The legislator elaborated that if Raila chooses to collaborate with President William Ruto’s administration under the NADCO report, he could hold a significant position.

“Raila needs to be in the government. Now that he is back, We could accommodate him. In short, just approve the NADCO report. If we approve the report, we will have positions that he can easily occupy and allow Kenyans to benefit from his many years of experience,” Mulu stated.