Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi speaking during an Interdenominational prayer’s function in Ugunja constituency. Faith Matete Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi and his wife being prayed for during an Interdenominational prayer’s function in Ugunja constituency. Faith Matete Leaders during the Interdenominational prayer’s function in Ugunja constituency. Faith Matete
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has called on leaders allied to the broad-based government to rally behind President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, saying the political reality on the ground makes Ruto’s second term inevitable.
Wandayi said leaders must stop sending mixed signals to the public and instead offer clear political direction, noting that failure to do so amounts to poor leadership.
“As things stand, President William Ruto will still win the next election. Let us face facts and tell our people the truth,” Wandayi said during an Interdenominational prayer’s function in Ugunja constituency on Tuesday.
The former Ugunja MP urged his colleagues to demonstrate leadership by avoiding what he termed as “side options” and instead guide their supporters honestly on the country’s political direction.
“Leadership does not mean going round in circles. It means standing in truth and giving direction. When people are given clear direction, they will follow,” he added.
Wandayi dismissed growing criticism over cabinet appointments and power-sharing arrangements within the broad-based government, saying coalition politics is founded on negotiations and compromise.
He noted that political coalitions are formed through structured agreements that involve give-and-take, and such arrangements should not be misrepresented as unfair.
“When political parties or movements enter into coalitions, whether electoral or post-election, there is always a negotiated settlement. Decisions are made through give and take,” he said.
Addressing concerns over the distribution of cabinet positions, Wandayi said President Ruto exercised wisdom in allocating slots among coalition partners, adding that no single group can claim entitlement beyond what was agreed.
He further emphasized that political direction for his party ODM will continue to come from its leadership, led by Dr Oburu Odinga.
“Our party leader is Dr Oburu Odinga. Any engagement he leads, we follow. That is where our political direction comes from,” Wandayi said.
The CS appealed to leaders to avoid political noise that could confuse supporters, saying such distractions do not help the country or the coalition government.
“Noise from outside is not helpful. What matters is unity, honesty with our people and commitment to the agreements we have entered into,” he said.
Wandayi reaffirmed his support for the broad-based government, saying backing President Ruto’s second term would provide political stability and allow leaders to plan ahead.
“We are already in a broad-based arrangement. Let us support it and plan for the future,” he said.