Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has vowed to conduct extensive consultations before making his final political decision ahead of the 2027 general elections. He announced that he will make a major declaration next week, marking the conclusion of his nationwide tour.
Odinga arrived in Kisumu on Monday, where he was warmly received by interim ODM Party leader and Kisumu County Governor, Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o. He emphasized that his visit was aimed at engaging with elders from Migori, Homa Bay, Kisumu, and Siaya counties.
During his meeting with the elders, Odinga reflected on his recently concluded bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, a race he lost to Djiboutian candidate Mahamoud Ali Youssouf. He declared that the chapter was now behind him and urged Kenyans to focus on the future.
“I said yesterday, east or west, home is best,” Odinga remarked. “That’s why I came directly from Dubai to Mombasa and then to Kisumu. I was received very well by Governor Nyong’o, and this morning, I had the opportunity to meet with elders from across Nyanza—Migori, Homa Bay, Kisumu, and Siaya. I shared my experiences from the AU campaign and told them that chapter is behind us now; we are moving forward.”
On Tuesday, Odinga engaged with youth leaders at the Kisumu County Hall, where he shared insights from his Addis Ababa campaign. He urged the youth to move beyond past setbacks and focus on the nation’s progress.
“After talking with the elders, I met with youth leaders and shared with them my experiences during the AU campaign in Addis Ababa,” he said. “That chapter is now behind us, and we must look forward.”
Odinga also clarified that his consultations would extend beyond Nyanza. He announced plans to engage with leaders from Kisii, Western, Coast, Rift Valley, Eastern, North Eastern, and Central Kenya, stating that his next political move would be informed by discussions across the country.
“I said there will be life after Addis Ababa,” he stated. “Before making any comprehensive statement, I will consult widely across the country. I won’t limit myself to Nyanza alone—I will engage with leaders from all regions. I will make a statement next week. Watch this space.”
Odinga’s recent high-profile meeting with President William Ruto in Mombasa has fueled speculation about his political future. The two leaders, who collaborated during Odinga’s AUC chairmanship bid, reportedly discussed national matters. Their meeting has left Kenyans wondering whether Odinga will mount another presidential run in 2027 or align himself with President Ruto.
