Renowned political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi has ignited a storm of speculation and debate following his remarks suggesting a potentially unprecedented political twist ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Taking to social media, Ngunyi claimed that if Azimio leader Raila Odinga were to walk away from his current cooperation with President William Ruto and instruct his ministers to resign before the 2027 elections, it could plunge the nation into a constitutional crisis.
“If Raila walks away from Ruto, and his ministers RESIGN before 2027 elections — what HAPPENS? He did it to Moi in 2002. If he does it again, there will be NO presidential elections in 2027. The President, Governors, MCA will remain in office until 2032,” Ngunyi wrote.
The statement alludes to a strategic move Raila Odinga executed in 2002 when he parted ways with President Daniel arap Moi and catalyzed a massive political realignment that ultimately led to Moi’s exit from power and ushered in Mwai Kibaki’s presidency.
Ngunyi’s comments come at a time of intense political realignments, with the ongoing bipartisan talks, Cabinet appointments from opposition ranks, and a growing rift within key coalitions. The idea that ministerial resignations could derail the elections and extend current terms is being viewed by some observers as far-fetched, while others interpret it as a warning of the kind of political brinkmanship that may define the coming months.
Legal experts have, however, poured cold water on the claim, noting that Kenya’s Constitution has clear timelines for elections every five years and that no single political action — including Cabinet resignations — can override this schedule unless under extreme national emergencies declared in accordance with the law.
Nonetheless, Ngunyi’s remarks underscore the high stakes of Kenya’s 2027 elections and the strategic calculations currently underway among top political players.
As the country moves closer to the next election cycle, the spotlight remains on the dynamics between President Ruto and Raila Odinga — and how long their tenuous partnership will hold.
