Siaya Governor James Orengo has firmly rejected the long-standing misconception of a contentious relationship with Raila Odinga, proudly asserting that he has never hesitated to challenge the late opposition leader.
During a television interview on the evening of May 6, 2026, Orengo elaborated on his decades-long connection with the Odinga family, emphasizing that his readiness to assert his views traces back to the time of Raila’s father, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
In addressing the historical tensions that arose following Jaramogi’s death, Orengo clarified the circumstances surrounding the leadership of Ford Kenya.
When the interviewer inquired about a perceived fallout after his support for Kijana Wamalwa over Raila, Orengo swiftly corrected the narrative.
“It wasn’t really a fallout; I believe that is a misnomer,” Orengo stated. “What transpired was that Wamalwa served as Jaramogi’s deputy, and the party consensus was that he should assume the role of chairman. The question then arose regarding who would serve as deputy. I engaged in a democratic contest with Raila, which I won. I have no regrets, and it was not an issue between us. Subsequently, Raila exited Ford Kenya, and I also moved on.”
Despite their eventual departures from Ford Kenya, Orengo emphasized the enduring closeness between them, recalling that Raila had once referred to him as “one of Jaramogi’s sons” in his writings.
“We maintained a strong relationship. If you examine Raila’s literature, you will find references to me that highlight our political bond. In several speeches before his passing, he acknowledged me as one of Jaramogi’s sons. I considered Raila a brother, just as he viewed me as one.”
Regarding the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), Orengo did not shy away from discussing more recent disagreements.
He disclosed that he had recognized constitutional shortcomings in the BBI document long before the judiciary invalidated it.
“However, there were instances when we perceived issues differently, including those related to the BBI. We debated some aspects, and while I supported Raila, I cautioned him about potential pitfalls. Ultimately, we lost in court due to the very concerns we had raised. Certain provisions in the BBI contradicted the constitution,” Orengo explained.
When the interviewer questioned whether he felt overshadowed by Raila’s considerable political influence, the 76-year-old strongly affirmed his independence.
He confirmed his previous opposition to Raila during discussions surrounding the Kilifi draft constitution.
“Were you ever afraid to confront him [Raila]?” the interviewer probed.
“Never, never, never,” Orengo replied decisively. “I was not afraid to stand up to Jaramogi—his father—who was a much more seasoned politician.”
“You also disagreed with Raila over the Kilifi draft constitution?” the interviewer asked.
“Yes, I did,” Orengo affirmed.
As Orengo continues his role as Siaya Governor, his reflections illustrate a political partnership grounded in mutual respect and the fortitude to assert one’s principles in the face of Kenya’s most formidable political figures.
