Ruto Names Who Was His Only 2027 Strongest Competitor as He Downplays Gachagua’s Crew

President William Ruto has said that his strongest political rival in the 2027 elections was the late Raila Odinga, describing him as the only leader who truly challenged him.

Speaking in Malava constituency, Kakamega County, Ruto said that no current opposition figure could match Raila’s political strength or influence.

The president visited the region to drum up support for his re-election bid and used the opportunity to respond to leaders forming what they call the “United Opposition.”

The group is led by former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, alongside Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc-Kenya’s Martha Karua, and DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa.

Ruto laughed off their efforts to unite against him, saying they lacked vision and clear plans for Kenya’s future.

“I want to ask you, my people of Malava, are these really the people who think they can compete with us? The only person who gave me a serious challenge was Raila Odinga. The rest — I can deal with them early in the morning,” Ruto said as the crowd cheered.

The head of state urged the opposition leaders to stop focusing on him and instead come up with real solutions for the country.

“They have no agenda for Kenya. You can’t build a nation by just criticizing. You need ideas and a plan to move people forward,” he added.

His remarks came only days after the burial of Raila Odinga, who passed away in India on October 15 while receiving treatment.

Ruto, together with other national leaders including former president Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, attended Raila’s burial at his family home in Bondo.

In his earlier tribute, Ruto described Raila as a true patriot who dedicated his life to democracy and justice.

“Raila was a man who fought for fairness and equality. Kenya has lost a great leader,” he said during his national address from State House.