Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has ruled out running for president in 2027, emphasizing his commitment to working with President William Ruto's administration. Speaking on Ramogi TV, he warned of internal divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) that could jeopardize the party's future. Wandayi urged party members to provide viable alternatives rather than mere criticism.
On Thursday, November 20, 2025, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi addressed speculation about his political ambitions during an interview on Ramogi TV. He firmly dismissed any plans to contest the presidency under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) banner in the 2027 elections, stating his focus remains on collaborating with President William Ruto's government beyond that year.
"As the ODM party, we have been looking for the presidency for the last five elections, but unfortunately, we have never got it. Now that is water under the bridge," Wandayi said. He questioned whether any ODM member was ready to vie for the top seat, adding, "As for me, I am not ready to vie for the presidency in 2027, maybe after 2027."
Wandayi highlighted ongoing tensions within ODM, warning that they could derail the party's progress. He accused some members of attempting to divide the party through populist comments at the expense of its future, calling for sobriety and sound decision-making among politicians.
"Everyone is allowed to express themselves freely, be it a preacher or even a businessperson. But when you talk and criticise something, make sure you provide an alternative so that we can evaluate the alternative to see whether it is viable," he advised.
Defending his role in the government, Wandayi stressed that his decision was for the benefit of all Kenyans, not personal gain. "Our decision to work in the government is not for individual benefit. Today, I am a cabinet secretary, but tomorrow, I might be removed from the cabinet position; life must continue," he noted.
Looking ahead to 2027, Wandayi described the political landscape as divided into two main camps: one led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the other by President Ruto. He suggested ODM had limited chances of fielding a competitive presidential candidate and pondered whether the party or the Luo community should back an independent bid or align with Ruto, given Gachagua's group had already outlined its plans.
"Should we, as ODM members or the Luo community, front our own candidate for the presidency in 2027? Or should we continue uniting with Ruto? Because Gachagua and his team have already outlined their plan, and we can not fit in," Wandayi commented.