The two political nemeses-turned-allies are reportedly working on a legal framework to define the structure and operational mechanisms of their proposed political union. This arrangement would see Odinga secure a plum government position while also bringing more of his allies into the Cabinet.
The drafting of the agreement comes just days after Odinga returned home following his unsuccessful bid to become chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
In their first meeting since returning from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the two leaders met at State House Mombasa on Monday, February 24, where they reaffirmed their commitment to a broad-based government. Several of Odinga's lawyers, who have drafted past agreements with previous regimes, were present in Mombasa, further fueling speculation.
Odinga and Ruto faced off in the disputed 2022 presidential election, which the former prime minister accused Ruto of rigging. However, in an unprecedented move, they joined forces after deadly youth-led protests erupted in the country in June last year over punitive taxes. This was widely seen as Ruto's attempt to have Odinga help him quell the unrest.
In return, Ruto absorbed some of Odinga's political lieutenants into the Cabinet in what he termed the formation of a broad-based government. The President also led efforts to lobby for Odinga's AUC bid. However, this move was not without criticism, with some accusing Odinga of riding on the blood of young Kenyans who died in the protests for political gain.
With their renewed political dalliance, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the leaders are keen to elevate their political collaboration to a new level.
Should Odinga yield to Ruto's overtures, he is reportedly set to be rewarded with the appointment of several of his allies to senior government positions, including Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries. Some of Odinga's supporters are pushing for a 50-50 power-sharing arrangement by 2027.
Odinga could also benefit from a proposed constitutional amendment that would see the creation of the position of Leader of the Official Opposition, the reintroduction of the Prime Minister role, and other governance adjustments aimed at enhancing inclusivity and national cohesion.
Amid growing speculation, Odinga has promised to make a major political announcement next week, further heightening rumours of a potentially game-changing realignment in Kenyan politics.
'The African Union Commission (AUC) election is now behind us. I'm back home, ready for the next move, which I will share with Kenyans in the coming week,' he said during a press briefing.
Meanwhile, Ruto's former deputy, Gachagua, who was ousted last year over insubordination, is expected to unveil a new party and form a coalition with other like-minded opposition leaders in a bid to challenge Ruto in 2027.
He has repeatedly accused President Ruto of betrayal and has vowed to lobby against him, seeking to deny the Head of State votes from the vote-rich Mount Kenya region, which played a huge role in Ruto's election.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
