Ruto to broad-based leaders: We must win election, no other option

President William Ruto has told leaders of the broad-based government that winning the 2027 General Election is their only option, as UDA and ODM move closer to formalising their political partnership ahead of the polls.

Speaking on Monday at a three-day retreat for leaders of the broad-based coalition in Naivasha, Nakuru County, President Ruto said the emerging alliance was not merely about securing power but about determining the country's future, warning that an opposition victory would jeopardise the gains his administration claims to have made.

The President urged leaders of the two political formations to work together and sell their record to voters, portraying the opposition as disorganised and lacking a clear agenda.

"In the coming election we must win, by God's grace, because we do not have an option. The alternative is difficult to fathom. Inshallah, we must win the next election not for your sake but for the sake of Kenya," he said.

'Alternative is difficult to fathom'

President Ruto said the broad-based government had a clear development agenda and a record to defend, unlike the opposition, which he accused of lacking both a vision and a track record.

"When I look at the alternative I shudder. A group of individuals without vision and agenda is dangerous for the country. The alternative is difficult to fathom. That side is in chaos and all they do is fumble and mumble when asked for a track record," Dr Ruto said.

The remarks came as the President signalled that the working relationship between his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could evolve into a formal pre-election coalition ahead of the 2027 contest.