Summary
- Governor James Orengo was heckled during a public event in Siaya.
- The event was attended by President William Ruto for a major project launch.
- Incident comes amid ODM internal divisions and political tensions.
NAIROBI, Kenya- There was drama in Siaya County after Governor James Orengo was heckled while addressing a public gathering attended by President William Ruto.
The incident unfolded during a high-profile event to launch the Usenge Beach Pier project.
Heckling disrupts governor’s speech at state event
President Ruto had invited Orengo to speak as part of leaders accompanying him to the region.
However, moments into his remarks, sections of the crowd began jeering, forcing the governor to cut his speech short.
“I ask you to come to Siaya again,” Orengo said briefly before handing back the microphone.
Ruto proceeded with the event, shifting focus to the development agenda.
Project aims to boost Lake Victoria economy
The event marked the groundbreaking of the Usenge Beach Pier, a key project targeting economic growth around Lake Victoria.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to modernise the blue economy, improve fish handling, and boost trade in the lakeside region.
Officials say the project will help reduce post-harvest losses and enhance livelihoods for local communities.
Political tensions linked to ODM divisions
Orengo’s reception comes amid his growing role in the “Linda Mwananchi” faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The faction, associated with Edwin Sifuna, has been critical of the current administration and opposed to any alignment with the government.
Orengo, a close ally of Raila Odinga, is among leaders pushing for the party to maintain a strong opposition stance.
The group is also planning a parallel National Delegates Conference, seen as a challenge to a rival faction linked to Oburu Odinga, as internal divisions within the party deepen ahead of the 2027 elections.
