Orengo blames Ruto for the sharp rise this week after the veteran Siaya governor lashed out at President William Ruto over Edwin Sifuna’s sudden removal as Orange Democratic Movement secretary general.
Speaking to reporters, James Orengo made it clear he sees the president’s hand behind the party’s internal shake-up, urging him to keep his distance from ODM affairs.
The drama unfolded fast inside ODM ranks. Sifuna, the outspoken Nairobi senator known for fiery takes on governance and youth issues, got the boot from his SG role amid claims of indiscipline and going off-script on party lines.
Orengo didn’t mince words defending him, saying straight: “The problem in ODM is President Ruto. We are asking him to leave ODM alone. ODM is a movement for the people by the people.” His statement hit social media hard, shares piling up as supporters nodded agreement and critics fired back.
Orengo’s outburst comes at a tense time for ODM. The party, long Raila Odinga’s powerhouse, navigates tricky waters post his retirement and cooperation pacts with the government.
Sifuna led the vocal wing pushing hardline opposition, clashing with those open to deals. Removal feels like a purge to many, clearing a path for smoother ties with the State House. Orengo, a Raila loyalist through thick and thin, sees interference plain — Ruto’s influence creeping in, pulling strings quietly.
Supporters rallied quickly behind Orengo’s words. Posts flooded with “Hands off ODM!” and praise for calling it like it is. One viral clip of his presser racked up thousands of views and comments thanking the elder for protecting the party’s soul.
Youth especially feel stung — Sifuna is their voice, bold and unfiltered. “If Ruto wants ODM, join properly,” one fan wrote, liking the climbing.
But not everybody agrees. Some ODM insiders defend the move, saying discipline is needed when members stray. Cooperation brought cabinet spots and projects, they argue — pragmatism over purism.
Ruto’s camp stayed quiet publicly, with no direct response, but allies dismissed claims as sour grapes from the losing side.
This rift exposes ODM wounds wide. Raila’s shadow looms large; unity is fragile without him steering. Orengo’s blast reminds us the old guard still fights for independence and people’s movement, not government annexation. Sifuna himself kept low after removal, no big statement yet, letting allies carry fire.
Kenya watches closely. Opposition strength matters for checks and balances, especially with 2027 creeping. If ODM splinters more, the ruling side gains easily.
Orengo’s words rally the base but highlight deep divisions. The party meets soon; perhaps more resolutions are coming. For now, the blame game rolls, with Ruto in the crosshairs from Orange House.
Orengo stood tall delivering the message, voice steady after decades in trenches. His call is simple: leave ODM to its people. Whether heard or not, conversation started loud.
Kenya’s politics turns again – alliances are tested, and loyalties pull. Sifuna removed just one chapter, a bigger story unfolding. Eyes stay peeled for the next move.
