Orengo Criticises Ruto’s Government, Alleges Plan to Rig 2027 Polls
Siaya Governor James Orengo has launched a scathing attack on President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of orchestrating a plot to rig the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Boro Maternity facility in Central Alego on April 30, Orengo alleged that the Kenya Kwanza government is attempting to interfere with the autonomy of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which he believes could jeopardise the integrity of future elections.
“The last free and fair election that we had was in 2002. If we are not careful, even this election that is coming is not going to be free and fair,” warned Orengo.
He raised concerns over the ongoing process of reconstituting the IEBC, stating that unless the commission is allowed to operate independently, the elections would be compromised.
“I am looking at it critically, even with the IEBC. The membership that is going to come out of this process, I am sure, unless they are allowed the space, Kenya is not going to have free and fair elections,” he added.
Orengo further lamented that senior opposition leaders, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, have repeatedly been denied electoral victory due to systemic rigging, forcing them into what he described as “nonsensical agreements” under the guise of forming inclusive governments.
The ODM stalwart said he is willing to go back to the streets—or even to jail—in the fight for good governance and constitutional rights.
“Unless we are prepared to fight for what is in the Constitution as a matter of right, Kenya is going to lose direction. I am ready to go back to jail, I am prepared to go back on the streets. This is not a country to be proud of,” he said passionately.
Governor Orengo also questioned the integrity of the Supreme Court, accusing unnamed individuals of attempts to undermine judicial independence.
A long-time ally of Raila Odinga, Orengo has been vocal in his criticism of the recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Ruto and Odinga. Despite Orengo’s hard-hitting remarks, Raila recently defended the governor, stating that he did no wrong by expressing his concerns over the government.
Speaking at Kakwajwok village in Kendu Bay on April 25, Raila clarified that his engagement with Ruto was only based on an MoU and did not represent a political merger.
The fiery remarks from Orengo signal increasing tension within the opposition ranks, as leaders call for electoral justice and constitutional accountability ahead of the 2027 polls.
In other news :Fred Matiang’i to Make First Public Appearance in Gusii Region on May 2
Orengo Criticises Ruto’s Government, Alleges Plan to Rig 2027 Polls