Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has said he would seriously consider leaving the Orange Democratic Movement for the Jubilee Party if Fred Matiang’i, his preferred 2027 presidential candidate, advises him to do so. This statement reflects ongoing political realignments following the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga. Onyonka affirmed his dedication to opposition roles while ruling out any alliance with President William Ruto.
On November 10, 2025, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka appeared on an NTV morning show, where he discussed his political future amid Kenya's evolving landscape. Onyonka, a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), expressed willingness to switch parties to bolster his prospects in the 2027 general elections. He highlighted his support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s presidential bid and readiness to follow his guidance, even if it means joining the Jubilee Party.
"I have so much respect for the ODM party, and if I find that I will win my seat with the Jubilee party, I will just go there," Onyonka stated. "My honest observation is that I have taken my time to support Fred Matiang’i, and if he asks me to join Jubilee, I will seriously consider that, and if he doesn’t, I will remain in ODM."
Onyonka attributed his political longevity to frequent party switches, noting, "I have never won a seat with just one party; I have always been changing parties." He linked recent shifts to the passing of Raila Odinga, which has forced ODM leaders to rethink strategies for relevance.
Despite openness to change, Onyonka firmly rejected joining President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition. "I am not criticising the government so that I may join them at the end. I tell people that I would not join the president; even if I found my Mum associating with him, I would discourage her," he said. He pledged to continue holding the government accountable until 2027.
Onyonka praised other opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, for resisting pressures to join the ruling side. He viewed Uhuru Kenyatta’s appointment of Matiang’i as Jubilee’s deputy party leader as a boost for Matiang’i’s 2027 ambitions. "What has surprised me Kalonzo Musyoka has stood his ground, and it has impressed me," Onyonka remarked, adding admiration for Gachagua’s critiques of the government despite differing styles.