A section of ODM leaders from the Nyanza region have called for patience and unity among their supporters as the country gradually edges closer to the 2027 General Election.

The leaders urged the electorate to await the final word from ODM leader, Raila Odinga, on the political direction the party will take.

The debate over ODM’s future was ignited by Kisumu County Woman Representative, Ruth Odinga —who is also Raila’s sister—during the burial of Mama Silvia Lusi, 82, mother to Kisumu County Chief Officer for Health, Dr Ojwang Lusi.

The ceremony took place in Nyangande Village, Nyando Constituency on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

Ruth, flanked by top leaders from the region, claimed that Raila remains the party’s ultimate decision-maker, and it is he who will determine whether the Orange party enters a coalition, aligns with President William Ruto’s administration, joins the opposition, or goes solo in the 2027 presidential race.

“Let’s be patient and wait for Baba’s word,” Ruth asserted, adding that he (Raila) has never publicly ruled out running for the top office again.

Ruth’s sentiments were backed by Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Seme MP James Nyikal, and a group of MCAs, including Pete Oiko (Kabonyo Kanyagwal), Maurice Ngeta (Onjiko/Awasi ward) and nominated MCA Kennedy Ajwang.

The leaders reiterated current support for the Building Bridges Group (BBG), affirming its principles and the need for national unity.

However, they made it clear that if the path being pursued fails to yield expected outcomes, they reserve the right to reassess and redirect their course.

“Politics is dynamic, and like a spherical object, it can shift in any direction. The goals can shift anytime,” Owili remarked, likening the current situation to a political game.

Despite the fluid political environment, the ODM leaders commended Ruto for his ongoing development efforts in the Nyanza region, particularly under the ‘Kumi Bila Break’ initiative.

They expressed optimism about constructive engagement with the Administration for the benefit of the people while cautioning that continued collaboration would depend on mutual respect and tangible outcomes.

“So far, so good,” Ruth said, “We can see radiating light at the end of the tunnel. But if things don’t go as envisioned, we will slam the brakes and return to the drawing board.”

As 2027 draws nearer, political realignments are beginning to take shape, and the ODM camp appears to be keeping its cards close to its chest, waiting for Raila to make the final call that could redefine Kenya’s political landscape in the months leading up to the 2027 polls.