Kisii Governor Simba Arati has extended a surprise political olive branch to President William Ruto, inviting him to rejoin the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and even promising him the party’s presidential ticket for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations held in Kisii County, Governor Arati—who serves as ODM’s Deputy Party Leader—made the unexpected overture, noting that President Ruto was among the party’s founding members and should consider returning to his political roots.
“The President yesterday said he is going to ensure that ODM remains the party it is,” Arati stated. “I want to urge him today, Mheshimiwa Ruto—you were a founding member of ODM. How I wish that you come back to your former party. If you came back to ODM, we would have you as our flag bearer. If you came back, we would fulfil the promise Baba had a vision for.”
The Governor’s remarks sparked mixed reactions from the crowd, given the long-standing rivalry between Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and ODM. Nonetheless, Arati’s tone reflected a rare show of unity following the passing of ODM’s longtime leader, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Arati reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to upholding Raila Odinga’s legacy, describing him as “our north, our compass in times of challenge.”
“We commit to carrying Baba’s dream forward. Raila was our north, our compass in times of challenges; his vision will forever be the foundation upon which we build Kenya’s future,” he declared. “Let’s honour his memory by doing the things he championed for.”
The Kisii Governor further expressed confidence that ODM would no longer remain in opposition after the next elections, asserting that the party—or a coalition led by it—would form the next government.
“As the Deputy Party Leader of ODM, I’m determined to ensure that ODM remains the biggest party in the country,” he stated. “We will form the government either as a party or as a coalition. We will no longer remain in opposition.”
In his trademark fiery style, Arati compared the upcoming political challenges to “crocodiles,” vowing to overcome them.
“For sure I know hard times are ahead of us; crocodiles are there. We will be there to handle them. As Simba Arati, the Governor of Kisii, I can assure you that in 2027 we will have our candidate as the presidential candidate,” he said.
Arati’s comments come at a time when ODM is undergoing major internal restructuring following Raila Odinga’s death. The party’s top leadership has vowed to protect Odinga’s legacy, reposition the movement, and strengthen its grassroots support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Political analysts have interpreted Arati’s remarks as both symbolic and strategic—signaling ODM’s attempt to project inclusivity while redefining its identity in the post-Raila era.
