Simba Arati Invites William Ruto Back to Orange Democratic Movement as 2027 Flagbearer
On October 20, 2025, Kisii Governor and ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati publicly extended an invitation to President William Ruto, urging him to rejoin the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) — a party he helped establish — and become its presidential candidate in the 2027 general election. Arati made the call during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kisii County, noting that Ruto’s recent affirmations of ODM’s relevance sealed the moment for a comeback.
Arati recalled that Ruto was a founding member of ODM and suggested that his return would align with the vision of the late party leader, Raila Odinga. He stated: If you came back, we would have you as our flagbearer.
The governor added that ODM is positioned to transition from opposition to power by 2027, and that bringing Ruto on board could move the party closer to forming government or leading a coalition.
Reactions to Arati’s overture range from strategic intrigue to scepticism. For some, the invitation to Ruto represents a bold political realignment that blurs the traditional lines between the ruling coalition and the opposition. Others warn it could deepen internal tensions within ODM, especially as the party grapples with leadership succession following Raila Odinga’s passing. Analysts note that if such a merger were to happen, it would reshape the electoral map and signal a dramatic shift ahead of 2027.
Looking ahead, the next months will be critical for both Ruto and ODM. If Ruto decides to accept Arati’s invitation, it might trigger formal negotiations and realignments across Kenya’s major political parties. For ODM, the question will be whether it can manage the influx of a high‑profile figure and preserve its identity while adapting to new coalitions. Either way, the invitation has raised the stakes and moved the discussion about 2027 into sharper focus.