Orengo demands ODM leaders return Ruto funds as party tensions deepen

Siaya Governor James Orengo has intensified pressure within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) by calling on party members who allegedly received money from President William Ruto to return it, further exposing deepening divisions over the party’s political direction.

Speaking during a public gathering on Sunday, April 26, 2026, Orengo did not mince his words, insisting that ODM must remain independent and free from external influence. 

He claimed that some leaders within the party had accepted funds from the Head of State, a move he said compromises the party’s principles.

“There are leaders who were given money by Ruto. I want to tell them to return that money. We do not want Ruto’s money,” Orengo declared, drawing cheers and murmurs from supporters.

His remarks come at a time when ODM is grappling with internal disagreements over whether to cooperate with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) or maintain a firm opposition stance. 

Orengo has positioned himself among leaders pushing for a hardline approach, warning that any form of political alignment with the government risks eroding ODM’s identity.

The governor framed his position as part of a broader effort to defend the party’s autonomy, noting that his recent political engagements reflect a renewed commitment to shaping ODM’s future. 

He described the moment as critical for the party, particularly following the death of longtime leader Raila Odinga, whose absence has left a vacuum now contested by rival factions.

Orengo’s comments also come ahead of a highly anticipated Linda Mwananchi rally at KaOwuor Grounds in Kisumu, an event expected to test the faction’s grassroots support. 

In the lead-up to the rally, he issued a warning over potential security disruptions, claiming that individuals planning to incite violence had already been identified.

“We are aware of those orchestrating violence and the interests they serve. They must abandon their plans. This movement cannot be stopped,” he said in a statement shared earlier.

The Linda Mwananchi movement has in recent weeks emerged as a powerful bloc within ODM, bringing together leaders such as Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino, and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. 

The group has consistently opposed any cooperation with the government and has instead pushed for a reassertion of ODM’s original ideals.

Orengo has gone further to style himself as the “people’s party leader,” a declaration that has added fuel to an already simmering leadership contest within the party. 

His allies argue that the stance is necessary to safeguard ODM from what they describe as external capture, while critics see it as deepening divisions at a delicate time.

During a recent rally in Vihiga County, Orengo received open backing from key figures within the faction, with some even suggesting he could be a future presidential candidate. 

While he did not directly endorse such calls, he welcomed the support and reiterated his commitment to strengthening the party.

The internal wrangles have effectively split ODM into two broad camps—those aligned with the Linda Mwananchi faction and those perceived to be more open to engagement with the government. 

This divide has played out in public rallies, media appearances, and internal party forums, raising concerns about cohesion ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Despite the escalating rhetoric, some leaders within ODM have urged restraint, warning that prolonged infighting could weaken the party’s national standing. 

However, Orengo and his allies appear determined to push their agenda, even if it means confronting colleagues head-on.