Oburu to Orengo: Quit ODM if you oppose broad-based government deal

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga at the interdenominational prayer event graced by President William Ruto in Migori on May 4, 2025/SCREENGRAB

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has lashed out at Governor James Orengo over his recent criticism of the broad-based government formation, daring him to leave the ODM if dissatisfied.

Oburu reminded Orengo that the party's decision to join the government was a collective resolution, not an individual choice.

“When my governor stands up and says he is annoyed, I don’t know with whom, and claims he just wants to speak the truth, I ask myself: what truth?” Oburu posed.

He emphasised that the 10-point agreement signed between ODM and Kenya Kwanza was reached after extensive consultations within the party, saying no member had the right to criticise it.

“Those who think this broad-based government is wrong are vomiting on us from within. Why don’t they step outside and vomit there?” he said.

Oburu made the remarks during an interdenominational church service in Suna East, Migori, attended by President William Ruto, who is on a three-day development tour of the county.

Oburu defended the agreement, saying it was aimed at securing a fair share of government resources and opportunities for the party and the region.

“We have been elected to fight for the rights of our people, and that is exactly what we are doing,” he said.

He challenged Orengo’s stance, arguing that a governor’s role is to serve the people, not to engage in political battles.

“A governor is not mandated to fight for the people but to serve them. He is given resources to deliver services. This is the time to serve, not to fight for rights. What rights other than what they eat?” he asked.

“Which rights do you want us to take to the streets to fight for, other than roads, hospitals, electricity, or water? If you want to fight, there is plenty of space elsewhere.”

During a funeral service in Siaya on April 12, Governor Orengo declared that he would not join what he termed the “praise-singing bandwagon” for the current administration.

“I cannot be a praise-singer. We fought for a democratic constitution where people should speak freely. I urge Kenyans to tell their leaders the truth. This country will go to the dogs again if the kind of language we hear continues.

"If anything is brought to Siaya County, it will be as a matter of right, not as a favour,” Orengo said.

“There is a need to fight for your rights if we are to have a better country.”