Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has asked leaders to focus on serving Kenyans instead of campaigning for the 2027 polls. 

Speaking during the funeral of veteran pilot James Nguyo Gitahi on Saturday, March 15, 2025, Raila noted that the country cannot continue to dwell on future politics, urging leaders to focus on doing their mandated roles. 

He went on to state that the country stagnates whenever leaders maintain their attention on politics hindering progress. 

“Hatuezi piga siasa maka Milano mfululizo, chi haiezi endelea mbele, manake mkieka nchi katika hali ya campaign, kelele inakua nyingi zaidi, hakuna kazi inafanyika, mpaka kue na wakati ambayo kazi inafanywa na baadae tunarudi kwa campaign,” Raila said. 

At the same time, the former prime minister responded to calls for him to join former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for the 2027 presidential elections.

He stated that he has been winning the previous elections but has never been declared the victor. 

The firebrand politician equally asserted that Kenya has only had one genuine election since the introduction of multiparty democracy in 2002. The ODM leader argued that all other elections were rigged in favor of his opponent. 

“The only election that was free and fair since the multi-party era is the one in 2002; you all know about the rest. So don’t tell me that I want to win an election—I have already won many times. I just haven’t been declared. Democracy is not instant coffee that you brew and drink at the same time,” Raila said.

He also defended his move to join forces with President William Ruto insisting that his 10-point agenda was never a betrayal to Kenyans. 

Continuing his speech, Raila maintained that his pact with Ruth aims to help solve key national issues, wondering what tangible solutions would come from removing Ruto from office. 

“Kenyans need to live between now and 2027. The 10-point agenda is not a betrayal to Kenyans. Mnasema Ruto aende, aende alafu nini ifanyike? Shida za wakenya lazima zitatuliwe sasa sio siku engine,” Raila noted.