Ruto vows to keep Raila’s ODM alive, pledges to honour his legacy

President William Ruto has pledged to keep the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) alive and ensure it continues to contribute to Kenya's development, stating that the party remains a partner of his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in the broad-based government. During a church service in Kisumu on Sunday, September 13, 2026, Ruto expressed his respect for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying that Raila's national agenda was not easily replaceable.

Ruto, who considers himself a student of Raila, vowed to work towards ensuring the ODM and UDA continue walking together as partners rather than competitors. He emphasized that the ODM and UDA are not competitors but partners in the broad-based government. Ruto pledged to honor his late political counterpart by ensuring the ODM builds on its agenda and continues contributing to the country's development.

The President's remarks came as he embarked on a four-day tour of Luo Nyanza, during which he is expected to inspect and commission government projects and engage with residents and local leaders.