Siaya County Governor James Orengo defended his recent State House visits. He opposes the Orange Democratic Movement joining the government. He said he does not go there to beg for development funds.
In a local TV interview on Monday night, December 29, 2025, Orengo explained his position. He does not visit to kneel before President Ruto. He goes because the Constitution demands fairness and equity in national government actions.
“It’s not begging,” he stressed. The national government created funds for housing, sports, and health. Siaya County must join in planning and rollout. These efforts involve both national and county levels. “I go to State House on constitutional grounds, not to beg,” Orengo added.
Many see Orengo’s attacks on the government-ODM deal as a double standard. He often says ODM must stay independent in opposition. It needs to check the current regime.
Yet in June 2025, Orengo met President Ruto. He left with benefits for Siaya: Ksh8 billion for affordable housing, Ksh2.5 billion for student hostels, Ksh2 billion for modern markets, and Ksh1.6 billion to power over 10,000 homes.
Cooperation makes sense, Orengo argued. The Constitution calls for teamwork between national and county governments. Areas like housing, health, and sports overlap in their control.
Orengo also warned against those pushing ODM into coalitions for 2027 elections. He targets people trying to sell the party led by Oburu Odinga. He urges caution before any deals.
