SIAYA, Kenya –Siaya Governor James Orengo has vehemently opposed any plans for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to join President William Ruto’s administration.
Speaking at a funeral in North Alego, Siaya County, Orengo labeled the proposal as an “abomination” and “disaster” that cannot be allowed to happen.
Governor Orengo’s remarks come amid growing divisions within ODM regarding party leader Raila Odinga’s proposal for national dialogue with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The discussions aim to form a broad-based government, a move that has sparked significant controversy.
Orengo emphasized the urgent need to prioritize justice for families affected by recent protests over political positions.
“Putting aside my position as the governor, justice must be done. We must deal with the injustices now and not tomorrow,” Orengo stated, highlighting the emotional toll on the community.
He was speaking during the burial of 25-year-old Kevin Onyango, who was killed during anti-government protests.
“We cannot at a time we are mourning our people and some are scrambling for positions. This cannot happen,” Orengo declared.
Governor Orengo passionately called for attention to the voices of grieving families, especially mothers like Kevin Onyango’s.
“I went to morgues and saw our children there. People are saying this is not our war, but our children are dead in it. How can we get to government when those who have been killed have not gotten justice? I do not accept,” he asserted.
Urging the public to resist joining the Kenya Kwanza administration, Orengo warned, “Joining the Kenya Kwanza administration is a disaster and abomination. It cannot work.”
Orengo dismissed claims that President Ruto’s departure would lead to a constitutional crisis.
“I want to tell you that there is nothing that will happen if Ruto leaves because we have had powerful leaders who have left. Even me, one day when the time comes, I will leave and the world will not end,” he stated.
Reiterating his support for Raila Odinga, Orengo aligned with other ODM leaders who oppose the proposed broad-based government.
Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga warned that calls for President Ruto’s resignation could trigger unconstitutional changes and instability.
He also mentioned that ODM is ready for national dialogue and supports President Ruto’s plan for a broad-based political arrangement.
Despite this, some Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition leaders, including principal Kalonzo Musyoka, firmly reject the proposed unity government.
“We shall not participate in or support the proposed Kenya Kwanza-led broad-based government of national unity. This is a betrayal of the Kenyan people, particularly Gen Z and millennials, who have paid the ultimate price,” Kalonzo declared.
The decision was supported by the Wiper Democratic Movement, Jubilee Party, DAP-Kenya Party, Party of National Unity (PNU), and Narc-Kenya.
