President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga have officially sealed their political union with a firm call to Members of Parliament: unite in the fight against corruption and embrace a bipartisan approach to government business.
The two leaders, who only months ago were fierce political rivals, presented a united front during a joint Parliamentary Group meeting in Nairobi on Monday.
The gathering brought together lawmakers from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and allied parties in what was described as an “unprecedented show of political reconciliation.”
In their joint statement, Ruto and Raila declared that the era of partisan resistance in the House is over. They directed MPs from both sides to support government bills, motions, and proposals without unnecessary obstruction, stressing that national unity must now take precedence over party loyalties.
ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga gestures during a PG meeting in Karen. Photo: Raila Odinga Source: Facebook.
“Our foremost enemy is corruption, not each other,” Raila told legislators, noting that Kenyans expect results rather than endless political wrangling. “From today, we speak with one voice on matters that affect the people.”
President Ruto echoed the message, warning MPs who attempt to derail the new spirit of cooperation that they would be “standing on the wrong side of history.”
He emphasized that the partnership is not about sharing power but about safeguarding the nation’s stability and ensuring development programs run without disruption.
President William Ruto speaks during Karen PG meeting. Photo: Raila Odinga Source: Facebook.
The directive is expected to significantly ease the passage of key legislative proposals, including economic reforms and governance bills that have in the past faced stiff resistance.
Political analysts say the union could reshape Kenya’s parliamentary politics, effectively creating a powerful bloc that leaves little room for dissent.
Critics, however, have cautioned that the merger might weaken oversight if MPs are compelled to rubber-stamp government decisions. Civil society groups urged lawmakers to balance loyalty with accountability.
Still, for ordinary Kenyans grappling with economic hardships, the unity pledge offers hope of faster reforms and decisive action against graft. As one Nairobi resident put it: “If they are truly serious about fighting corruption, then this is the Kenya we have been waiting for.”