Raila Odinga Defends Governor Orengo Amid Tensions Over Outspoken Remarks
ODM leader Raila Odinga has defended Siaya Governor James Orengo following controversy stirred by the governor’s recent remarks at a public funeral in Siaya.
Speaking during the burial of Priscilla Koyo in Kendu Bay, Homa Bay County, Raila affirmed that Governor Orengo had done nothing wrong by expressing his opinion. The former Prime Minister emphasized that freedom of expression is a constitutional right that must be protected, even within political alliances.
“Governor Orengo has not committed any crime. He is simply exercising his democratic right to speak the truth,” said Raila, addressing mourners in Kakwajwok village.
The defense follows a powerful statement made by Orengo two weeks ago during the funeral of Raila’s longtime bodyguard, George Oduor. In the presence of both Raila and President William Ruto, Orengo encouraged Kenyans to demand their rights, warning that silence could lead the country down a dangerous path.
“I cannot be a praise-singer,” Orengo had stated. “We fought for a democratic Constitution. Kenyans must speak the truth to power if we are to preserve this nation.”
Odinga clarified that the relationship between ODM and the ruling UDA party is grounded on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), not submission. He stressed that ODM leaders remain committed to advocating for constitutional values and devolution.
The ODM leader also came to the defense of Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, who recently criticized the national government for undermining devolution. Nyong’o cited the continued operation of agencies like KURA and KERRA as undermining the 2010 Constitution’s vision of devolved governance.
“We cannot talk about true devolution when the national government still clings to key functions like roads and healthcare,” Nyong’o said earlier this week. “Counties have shown they can manage, and they should be empowered, not sidelined.”
Odinga echoed this sentiment, noting that ODM leaders speaking out against centralization are simply reinforcing the party’s longstanding stance on governance and devolution.
As political alliances continue to shift in Kenya’s complex landscape, Raila’s remarks reaffirm ODM’s commitment to accountability, constitutionalism, and the empowerment of county governments.
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Raila Odinga Defends Governor Orengo Amid Tensions Over Outspoken Remarks