Following the signing of a landmark pact that will see ODM leader Raila Odinga and President William Ruto work together, the Head of State has come out to clarify that their decision to join forces should not be misconstrued as a strategic move to position themselves for future electoral victories.

Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Friday, March 7, 2025, President William Ruto championed the agreement framework they had signed, emphasising that it carried a far greater purpose for the nation, with its positive impact soon to be realised.

According to him, the memorandum of understanding, which was signed amid jubilation from ODM supporters, was in no way a clandestine arrangement for power-sharing, as had been alleged by some.

“This moment is not about William Ruto or Raila Odinga. This agreement, this memorandum of understanding, is not about sharing positions or winning elections,” he affirmed.

Prioritising Kenyans

Ruto maintained that their decision to unite was driven by a shared vision to elevate the narrative of a better Kenya to the next level.

He stressed that, above all else, they were committed to placing the interests of Kenyans at the forefront.

He noted that they had chosen to set aside their differences and explore just how far the country could progress if leaders harnessed its full potential—a potential that, for far too long, had been spoken about but never fully realised.

“It is about the people and the interests of Kenya—that is what truly matters. To me, the interests of this great nation take precedence. We have talked about Kenya’s vast potential for far too long. It is now time to close ranks as leaders because this nation can succeed,” he declared.

Respecting Raila

During the occasion, the head of state also reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is accorded the respect he rightfully deserves.

In a speech that was met with wild applause, Ruto reflected on his long-standing relationship with Raila, acknowledging the pivotal role the former premier has played in shaping his own political journey.

He went on to assure the audience that he would do whatever it takes to ensure Raila is treated with dignity, not out of personal interest but in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the country.

“I called my brother and told him, ‘You have been my brother and party leader. Today, by God’s grace, I am President, and I want you to be treated with dignity. I will do whatever it takes to ensure you are respected in Kenya. I am not doing this for any selfish reason; I am doing it because I am a younger person, and you are my elder—not just by age but also in terms of the contributions you have made to this country. You deserve respect, and that is the relationship I have built with Raila.”

He further stated that the country’s progress would require more than just the two of them working together—it would take collective effort from all leaders to unify the nation and drive meaningful change.

“I am very clear in my mind that, moving forward, it will take more than Raila and myself; it will take each and every one of us to pull this country together and achieve the transformative changes that will make Kenya better,” he said, prompting loud cheers from the crowd.

Ruto’s heartfelt address to Raila came shortly after they formalised their cooperation through a joint government agreement aimed at delivering on their campaign promises to the citizens.

“This moment is not about William Ruto or Raila Odinga. This memorandum of understanding is not about sharing positions or winning elections—it is about the interests of the people of Kenya,” Ruto reiterated.