People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has accused President William Ruto of disrespecting the legacy of the late Raila Odinga by signing controversial laws during a period of national mourning. Karua revealed Odinga privately expressed discomfort with Ruto’s administration before his death on October 15.

• President Ruto assented to eight controversial bills, including amendments to the National Land Commission Act and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, on the same day Odinga’s death was announced.
• Martha Karua, during an interview on Spice FM on October 21, 2025, claimed Raila Odinga told her he was "uncomfortable with what was happening" under Ruto's leadership.
• Karua criticized Ruto's actions, stating that honoring Odinga means upholding his values, not just offering praise, and urged Kenyans to reject corrupt leaders.

The political alliance between Raila Odinga and William Ruto began to unravel shortly after the formation of the Grand Coalition Government following the disputed 2007 General Election. Once formidable allies who forged a strong working relationship in 2005, their disagreements steadily escalated.

• Breakup of political alliance between then Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Cabinet Minister William Ruto
• Key event that soured relationship: the aftermath of the disputed 2007 General Election and the establishment of the compromise Grand Coalition Government
• The dispute involved the "bitter Mau Forest dispute" and resulted in a deteriorated relationship between the two politicians

The **Mau Forest** dispute is highlighted as a primary factor that caused a significant rift between former allies, then-Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Cabinet Minister William Ruto, following the formation of the **Grand Coalition Government** after the disputed **2007 General Election**.

• The deterioration of the relationship between Raila Odinga and William Ruto began after the **2007 General Election** and the subsequent **Grand Coalition Government**.
• Before the conflict, Raila Odinga and William Ruto had a strong working relationship, first established in **2005**.
• Both political figures were known for their strong opinions and considerable followings, making them a powerful political force.