Orengo’s Bold Stand Sparks Tension in ODM Amid Broad-Based Government Talk
Siaya Governor James Orengo has shaken the political landscape with his recent remarks challenging the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)’s warming relations with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA). His statements have ignited debate within ODM ranks and beyond, raising fresh questions about the unity and direction of the opposition party amid ongoing calls for a broad-based government.
Addressing supporters during a high-profile event attended by ODM leader Raila Odinga and President Ruto, Orengo did not mince his words. He emphasized the importance of defending constitutional rights and speaking truth to power—even in the presence of the country’s top leaders.
“I cannot be a praise-singer,” Orengo declared. “We fought for a democratic Constitution where people should speak freely. I urge Kenyans to tell their leaders the truth. This country will go to the dogs again if the kind of language we hear continues.”
He added that any government development reaching Siaya County would be a right, not a political favor, reaffirming his stance that leadership must be accountable and people-centered.
While some interpreted his comments as a principled defense of democratic values, others within the party viewed it as a veiled attack on ODM’s latest political direction.
ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi attempted to strike a balance, acknowledging the party’s internal democracy while reinforcing the leadership of Raila Odinga.
“Raila Odinga is our party leader, and what he says is what we follow. What Orengo is doing is simply exercising his right to speak within the confines of that democracy,” Osotsi stated.
However, not all within ODM were as diplomatic.
Alego Usonga MP and Budget Committee Chair Samuel Atandi criticized Orengo’s approach, claiming the governor was being confrontational and undermining party cohesion. “Orengo has always thrived in the opposition. He uses it to evade accountability,” Atandi told Citizen Digital.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi also weighed in, defending ODM’s alliance with the ruling administration during a funeral in Siaya. He reiterated the region’s support for Raila Odinga and the broad-based government, dismissing dissenting voices as isolated.
As the ODM Party navigates this delicate political transition, Orengo’s remarks have exposed underlying tensions. The question now is whether the party can maintain unity as it repositions itself on the national stage—or whether voices like Orengo’s will spark deeper divisions.
In other news:Ruto’s Multibillion-Shilling Renovations Amid Scarcity Spark Outrage
Orengo’s Bold Stand Sparks Tension in ODM Amid Broad-Based Government Talk