This archive report was first published on 16 September 2019.
September 16, 2019
Kenya's political landscape is known for its unpredictability, and the possibility of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto forming a government in 2022 is not as far-fetched as it may seem.
Just a year ago, President Uhuru Kenyatta publicly stated that he had no issue with the Luo community, but rather with Raila Odinga, whom he described as a 'ganga.' Today, the two are close allies.
However, the current rivalry between Odinga and Ruto is intense, with both leaders engaging in public name-calling and sub-tweets.
But sources indicate that a team is working behind the scenes to mediate a resolution to their bitter feud.
Given the history of political violence in Kenya, Odinga's understanding of the consequences of such actions is crucial. He has spent most of his career in opposition and knows the cost of civil unrest.
Recent events have revealed a concerning trend in the Rift Valley, with politicians expressing sentiments that suggest a hidden agenda. Their belief that 2022 power belongs to Ruto alone could have catastrophic consequences.
It's also worth noting that Ruto's camp will not take any loss lightly in 2022, and this should be a consideration for those seeking to resolve the Odinga-Ruto rivalry.
Given Odinga's international stature, it's likely that he will make peace with Ruto and either form a government with him or support him for it.
