Kenya has witnessed a historic political shift with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between President William Ruto’s UDA and Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s ODM. While reactions have been mixed, ranging from anger to cautious optimism, one thing remains clear—Kenya’s most consequential politician, Raila Odinga, has once again chosen the path of pragmatism over political dogfights.

Since his release from prison, Raila has embraced what many call "the Mandela way"—a strategy that prioritizes results over endless battles. His career has shown that he would rather sit at the table and negotiate for the people than wage a war that leaves them with nothing. This approach has never meant abandoning his principles. On the contrary, it has ensured that regions historically excluded from national development—Nyanza, the Coast, Western, North Eastern, Eastern, and parts of Rift Valley—get their fair share of government services.

In contrast, figures like Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have weaponized government power to the detriment of national unity. Gachagua’s infamous "shareholding" narrative sought to divide Kenyans into those who deserved government services and those who did not. Under his watch, the Mandamano protests saw state brutality at its worst—protesters were maimed and killed, while President Ruto was conveniently out of the country. Meanwhile, Gachagua also made it his personal mission to frustrate Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s efforts to bring order to the city, proving that his leadership style was more about political vengeance than service delivery.

Now, with Raila and Ruto finding common ground, the anger from certain quarters is not about betrayal—it is about the realization that Kenyan politics is evolving. Raila has never been an emotional politician; he is a strategist. He understands that five years—or even three—is too long for marginalized regions to be denied development. If working with Ruto ensures that critical government services reach these regions, then it is a sacrifice worth making.

Critics argue that the real Gen Z voices that fueled last year’s protests have faded, replaced by a new breed—“Wakora Gen Zees”—who could turn out to be even more dangerous. These opportunists are showing signs of the same greed and authoritarian tendencies that they once opposed. Their outrage is performative, not rooted in the realities of governance.

The partnership between UDA and ODM, as highlighted by Silas Jakakimba—a Senior Advocate and former Personal Assistant to Prime Minister Raila Odinga—carries even more weight. His insights reflect not just a passing political moment but a deeper shift in Kenya’s governance structure. Jakakimba rightfully notes that this MoU is not about political survival but about broadening Kenya’s governance framework for national stability. If implemented successfully, it could lay the foundation for a more inclusive political formation that ensures equity, youth empowerment, and national cohesion.

For Raila Odinga—Africa’s most influential and consequential legislator who, despite never becoming president, has shaped the continent’s politics more than many who have —this is not about making peace with the government but making the government work for all Kenyans.

For Ruto, it is a chance to prove that his presidency is truly about inclusion. For Kenyans, it is a reminder that progress often comes not from endless fights but from strategic alliances that deliver real change.

Gem Musings is a Senior Communications, International and Public Affairs Practitioner, and an Expert in African Perspectives.