James Orengo Blasts ODM Politicians Who Praise William Ruto Too Much: “Too Much Sycophancy”

Siaya Governor James Orengo criticized ODM leaders for uncritically joining the government of President William Ruto
Orengo called on ODM members to hold the Kenyan government accountable first and deal with injustice
He raised concerns about the increasing cases of kidnappings and extrajudicial killings in Kenya
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna supported Orengo's call for ODM leaders to stand firm against government divisions

Governor of Siaya James Orengo has confronted some leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for their claims of supporting the government of President William Ruto without a doubt.

Siaya Governor James Orengo criticized ODM members who have been praising President William Ruto too much and forgot to mention the government's shortcomings. Photo: James Orengo.
Source: Twitter

Speaking on Saturday, January 18, 2025, during the funeral of the chairman of the National Commission for Human Rights (KNCHR) Roseline Odede in Uyoma, Rarieda Sub-County, Orengo called on ODM members to remain principled and press for government accountability.

“When Adolf Hitler created a coalition government, it did not survive. I pray that ODM will weather any storm,” Orengo said, stressing the need for the party to maintain its integrity. He added, “Even if you compromise, you must do so with principles. Don't be part of the praise and worship. We must stand firm.”

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Orengo also highlighted the alarming increase in kidnappings and extrajudicial killings across the country. He called on the government to take decisive action to deal with the violations, warning that unchecked corruption within the government could lead to the neglect of basic issues.

“Kenya is crying that we must stop kidnappings and extrajudicial killings in order to become a republic. When there are many compromises in the government, people lose focus on their basic issues,” he noted.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna he supported Orengo's views, calling on ODM leaders to hold the government accountable for injustice in the country. “ODM leaders in the government must stop being partisan and call out Ruto for the injustices going on in Kenya,” said Sifuna.

These remarks come several months after President William Ruto formed a broad government, appointing four former ODM leaders as cabinet secretaries. The nominees include Hassan Joho (Mining), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperation), John Mbadi (Treasury), and Opiyo Wandayi (Energy).