Siaya Governor James Orengo has vowed to remain steadfast in defending Kenya’s democratic ideals, insisting he will not be silenced by intimidation or political pressure. Speaking at Bar Ndege and Urenga health centres in Ugenya constituency during the launch of infrastructure projects, Orengo emphasized the need for leaders to remain accountable to the people and uphold the rule of law.
“I cannot let Kenyans or my country down by not speaking the truth,” he declared. “We must have leadership that believes in the rule of law, constitutionality, and the truth.”
Orengo warned against the rise of leaders who behave like “demi-gods” immune to criticism, stating that Kenya’s democracy thrives only when its citizens are vigilant and willing to challenge power. He expressed concern over growing indiscipline in authority and interference in electoral processes, which he said has denied Kenyans their rightful leaders due to vote manipulation.
Despite calls to amend the constitution, the veteran politician argued that Kenya already has one of the best constitutions globally. “We do not have to change the constitution again to ensure fairness. We only need to stop electoral fraud,” he added.
Orengo and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o have recently drawn criticism from within their Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party for speaking out against the party’s emerging closeness with the Kenya Kwanza government. The two have opposed what they term as blind loyalty and “praise-singing” within ODM, challenging the political alliance between Raila Odinga and President William Ruto.
During a funeral service in Siaya on April 12, Orengo stated, “I cannot be a praise-singer. We fought for a democratic constitution where people should speak freely.”
Governor Nyong’o has also voiced concern over the erosion of devolution, warning that recent political maneuvers threaten to roll back the gains made since the 2010 constitution.
The two leaders’ defiance signals a deepening rift within ODM, highlighting tensions between principled opposition and political pragmatism. Orengo urged Kenyans to demand their rights and challenge leadership when necessary, cautioning that failure to speak out could plunge the nation back into turmoil.
“There is a need to fight for your rights if we are to have a better country,” Orengo asserted.
