President William Ruto is set to host Siaya County leaders at State House, Nairobi, in a high-stakes meeting signalling a potential political realignment in one of Kenya’s most opposition-leaning regions. The Thursday breakfast meeting, led by Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, will focus on development priorities in Siaya but carries strong political undertones.
Among the leaders expected to attend is Governor James Orengo, whose past scepticism towards the Ruto administration made him a symbol of resistance within ODM ranks. His participation marks a notable shift, suggesting a thaw in tensions with both President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
The meeting, reportedly sanctioned by Raila himself, follows growing concerns that Siaya has lagged in development compared to neighbouring counties. With the next general election on the horizon, the engagement is seen as a strategic move to ensure Siaya is not left behind in national development plans.
Raila, during a weekend meeting with Siaya leaders, urged unity and a temporary halt to internal political rivalry. “Time for campaigns is coming. Give leaders like Orengo, Oburu, and Atandi time to work,” he said.
Orengo, once vocal in opposing collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza regime, has recently softened his stance. He is expected to present a detailed memorandum outlining the county’s needs. This follows an earlier, unsuccessful attempt to meet Ruto in April.
Senator Oburu Oginga echoed the new tone, stating, “Development does not happen where there is division. We will go to the meeting as one people.”
The meeting is viewed as part of a broader strategy by the ODM leadership to present a united front while leveraging warming ties with the President to deliver development gains. With all elected Siaya leaders, including MCAs, set to attend, the engagement could usher in a new era of cooperation between Nyanza and the national government.
As political lines blur, Thursday’s meeting could prove pivotal—not just for Siaya’s development trajectory, but for the evolving calculus ahead of 2027.
