Siaya Governor James Orengo has criticized a section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members for aligning with President William Ruto’s administration under the so-called broad-based agreement, calling it a “cowardly” approach.
Addressing the party’s youth convention in Mombasa on Friday, Orengo emphasized that it is President Ruto, not ODM, who stands to benefit from the alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election, citing the president’s perceived shortcomings in meeting public expectations.
“We want a government that is accountable. I can boldly say Ruto needs ODM—it is not ODM that needs Ruto. Yet some within the party act as though we are the ones seeking him,” Orengo said. “Ruto has failed, and I am unafraid to state this.”
He further stressed that ODM should remain an independent political force and is capable of fielding its own presidential candidate in 2027. Orengo dismissed the broad-based arrangement as lacking legal foundation and warned that subservience to other interests would undermine the party’s mission to represent the people.
“The liberation parties across Africa are weakening because they have forgotten their people. ODM is a party of the people, by the people, for the people. It cannot exist to serve the so-called broad-based interests,” he stated.
Orengo also cautioned against internal divisions, urging ODM members to clearly define their political stance rather than seeking positions in government without principled leadership.
Highlighting the legacy of the late former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga, Orengo underscored the importance of unity and youth participation in shaping the party’s future. “Raila’s legacy is greater than that of any of Kenya’s past presidents. He built ODM to be the voice of the people, not merely to join a broad-based government. That is why the party continues to lead in the National Assembly and Senate,” he said.
The youth convention serves as a precursor to ODM’s 20th-anniversary celebrations on Saturday, November 15, where members will honor Raila’s legacy while mapping the party’s path forward.
