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The inclusion of members of opposition leader Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in President William Ruto’s government represented a pivotal moment in Kenya’s politics.

This broad-based government, said to have been designed to foster national unity and enhance good governance, reflected Kenya’s desire for political inclusion, especially following the bitterly contested 2022 general election that left the nation sharply divided along political and tribal lines.

But as ODM members take up roles in the Executive, there is an urgent call for them to concentrate on providing services rather than reverting to partisan politics, personal glorification and blind sycophancy.

The formation of a coalition government, with members from opposing sides, is often heralded as a way to heal the divisions that arise during election cycles.

President Ruto’s decision to bring ODM leaders into his administration, especially after the highly charged post-election period, at first symbolised an attempt to move beyond political rivalry.

This partnership was not merely a political gesture, but rather a signal to the nation that political inclusivity can pave the way for long-term stability.

However, with this inclusion comes a critical responsibility. ODM members must recognise the unique position they are in: they are no longer simply opposition leaders. Instead, they are part of the solution to the country’s pressing challenges.

Their focus should now be on implementing policies that improve the welfare of Kenyans and address systemic issues in the economy, healthcare, education, infrastructure and security.

The challenges Kenya faces are vast: from rebuilding the economy, reducing the cost of living and tackling unemployment to enhancing public services and ensuring equity in resource distribution.

It is imperative that members of ODM, as well as their counterparts in the government, channel their energies towards solving these issues. They must avoid the temptation to return to the political games of the past, which often distracted from the work of governing.

Over the past two weeks, some ODM luminaries have been on the receiving end over their hawkish defence of President Ruto’s government.

Other than assigning themselves the dubious responsibility of being President Ruto’s court jesters, the ODM leaders have even crossed the red line by threatening to ruthlessly deal with government critics.