ODM leader Raila Odinga has left his 2027 presidential intentions open-ended, stating he has not declared interest but also hasn't ruled out the possibility of running.

Speaking during an interview with NTV on Sunday, Odinga said his current focus is on reorganising and strengthening the ODM party.

“I have not said that I'm running. I don't have to run. I can support someone else, but I can also run if I want to. Right now, I'm focused on strengthening ODM,” he said.

ODM is currently preparing for internal party elections ahead of a major National Delegates Convention (NDC) scheduled for October.

Party insiders believe the convention will be key in defining the direction ODM takes ahead of the 2027 polls.

Addressing growing speculation about emerging alliances, Odinga dismissed claims of a possible political deal between President William Ruto and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

While noting he maintains friendly relations with Kalonzo, Odinga insisted ODM will chart its own course, rooted in the party’s values and legacy.

Observers say Odinga’s remarks reflect a deliberate attempt to keep his political options open while reinforcing party unity and influence ahead of the next elections.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his own presidential bid, Odinga remains a dominant force in Kenya’s political space, with the power to sway electoral dynamics whether he runs or not.

ODM’s Role in Government

In the same interview, Odinga clarified ODM’s current position on government involvement, amid public confusion over the party's role. He acknowledged that some party-affiliated individuals have accepted advisory roles, but stressed that ODM itself remains outside government.

“Initially, I was against it,” Odinga said, referring to the decision to allow ODM experts to support the administration. “But my colleagues felt we needed to steady the ship.”

According to him, the move was driven by the need to offer technical support for national stability, not to compromise the party’s position as the opposition.

Odinga also noted that there has been no formal agreement to join the government, pointing out the lack of structured talks or any shared agenda between the two sides.

Instead, he said ODM has submitted a 10-point agenda which must be addressed before the party can consider any deeper form of cooperation.