Without Raila, Ruto’s Government is on Borrowed Time - Karua

People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has warned that President William Ruto’s government could face serious political instability following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom she described as a key pillar in Kenya’s political balance.

Speaking during an interview with TV47 on Tuesday, December 23, Karua claimed that Raila played a central role in keeping the current administration stable, despite being in opposition politics for years.

According to Karua, President Ruto’s survival in office has largely depended on Raila’s influence and ability to calm political tensions across the country.

“If there is anyone who has lost politically, it is President Ruto,” Karua said. “Without Raila, he will struggle to enjoy national support. Even now, there is uncertainty about how long his government can hold.”

Karua argued that Raila’s absence will be strongly felt as the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election. She claimed that the former Prime Minister had the power to unite different political blocs, something she believes President Ruto lacks.

The PLP leader further stated that Ruto’s political strength was closely linked to his working relationship with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Raila’s party. She warned that divisions within ODM over cooperation with the government could weaken the President’s position.

“There are serious disagreements within ODM on whether to continue supporting Ruto’s administration,” Karua noted. “That division alone is enough to destabilise the government.”

Karua also revealed details of what she described as her final private conversation with Raila before his death. According to her, the veteran politician expressed discomfort with his relationship with President Ruto.

She said she openly advised Raila to withdraw support from the government and allow it to collapse politically.

“I told him to think about stepping away and letting the system fall,” Karua said. “I did not demand an immediate answer, but he admitted that he was very uncomfortable with how things were going.”

Beyond political alliances, Karua accused President Ruto of running what she termed an increasingly authoritarian government. 

She criticised the administration for failing to protect Kenyan citizens allegedly detained or mistreated in neighbouring countries.

She also pointed to the November by-elections as a warning sign to opposition leaders, urging them to be more alert and organised ahead of future contests.

“The by-elections showed us that the opposition must be vigilant,” she said, adding that she believes President Ruto will not secure a second term in office.

Karua maintained that Kenyans are growing frustrated with the government over high living costs, unemployment, and governance issues, which she said will shape voter decisions in 2027.