Siaya Governor James Orengo has issued a bold and fiery challenge to the political status quo, asserting that the Luo community possesses genuine presidential material and should stop settling for the Deputy Presidency, which he dismissed as a likely “wild goose chase.”
Speaking on Friday at the burial of prominent businessman Sylvester Akumu Otieno in Ndori, East Asembo, Rarieda Sub-County, Orengo urged local leaders to cease “underselling” the region’s potential by endorsing outsiders for the number two position while ignoring capable leaders from within Luo Nyanza.
“The ground is shifting and the time for business as usual is over,” Orengo told mourners. “It is a bitter irony to see local leaders endorsing outside candidates for the Deputy Presidency while overlooking the undisputed presidential material within Luo Nyanza. We must stop underselling our own potential at the altar of political convenience and finally recognize the strength we already possess.”
Orengo, a veteran opposition leader and key figure in the Linda Mwananchi movement, used the occasion to sharply criticize national leadership. He expressed concern over President William Ruto’s recent remarks about sending those who “disturb” him home, describing them as a chilling disregard for democratic dissent.
He further demanded a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, insisting the matter cannot be brushed aside.
The governor called on supporters of the Linda Mwananchi vision to abandon fence-sitting, saluting Hon. Ruth Odinga for “speaking our language” and pledging firm solidarity with Hon. Millie Mabona. He warned against intimidation from those in power, declaring that the fire of liberation is spreading.
“This journey is not for the faint-hearted, but we remain unbowed,” Orengo said, pointing to an upcoming rally in Meru County and a future homecoming rally in Siaya County where leaders will speak directly to the people.
The burial brought together several prominent figures, including Senior Counsel Otiende Amolo, area MCA, county government officials, and Frederick Ojode, the governor’s Personal Assistant.
Orengo described the late Sylvester Akumu Otieno as an astute businessman, a community role model, and an epitome of kindness. He was the beloved husband of Rarieda Sub-County Women Coordinator, Mama Emma Atieno Otieno.
Orengo’s remarks signal a growing push within Nyanza for a more assertive political posture ahead of the 2027 General Election. His strong rejection of the Deputy Presidency in favour of fielding presidential material reflects deeper conversations about the region’s role in future national coalitions and the legacy of Raila Odinga’s political journey.
As political realignments continue across the country, Orengo’s message was clear: Luo Nyanza will no longer play second fiddle. The ground, he declared, is shifting.
