Siaya Governor James Orengo has called for a formal legal agreement to anchor the cooperation between the Orange Democratic Movement and President William Ruto’s administration.
He argued that the current political arrangement lacks enforceable safeguards and leaves ODM leaders vulnerable to removal at any time.
Speaking during a church fundraiser at St Luke Okoyo ACK in Central Alego, Orengo warned that the party risks weakening internally if it continues to rely on goodwill rather than structured commitments.
He noted that despite ODM experts serving in the government, their positions remain unsecured without a binding framework.
He drew parallels with the 2008 Grand Coalition Government, where the late Raila Odinga and former President Mwai Kibaki operated under a legally recognized pact.
Orengo emphasized that ministers appointed under that coalition enjoyed protection because their tenure was guided by constitutional and statutory provisions.
Highlighting lessons from past political fallouts, Orengo recalled how Kibaki dismissed leaders allied to Raila before the coalition was formalized, prompting reforms that later informed the 2010 Constitution.
He maintained that the same risk exists today if ODM fails to insist on clear legal terms governing its cooperation with President Ruto.
The governor insisted that seeking a formal agreement does not contradict supporting Ruto’s 2027 bid, but rather ensures accountability and stability within the partnership.
He warned that some leaders defending the government may be driven more by personal gain than long-term party cohesion.
Accompanied by Siaya Speaker George Okode and other county leaders, Orengo also reminded the public of the historical sacrifices made by liberation-era politicians.
He urged younger leaders to appreciate the struggles that shaped Kenya’s political landscape and uphold principles that protect party interests.
Okode backed Orengo’s concerns, noting that some critics within ODM benefit from political appointments won through collective effort.
Other local leaders also cautioned against internal attacks, arguing that respect for senior leadership is essential for maintaining unity ahead of major political realignments.
1 Comments
Governor Orengo is 💯 per cent right. The ones in the kk css are purely protecting their interests. Otherwise Mr. Orengo, Sifuna, owino, Winnie and the like-minded people should reorganize and get ready for the battle.nevertheless the majority of us stand with them.
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