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Energy Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi has hit back at Siaya Governor James Orengo over remarks that he once helped him secure release from prison, dismissing the claims as “unfortunate” and politically motivated.
In a sharp and calculated response, Wandayi accused the governor of attempting to whip up sympathy and distract residents from pressing accountability issues facing the county.
Speaking during a public baraza in Madungu, Ugunja Constituency, the CS sidestepped directly confirming or denying Orengo’s claims, instead shifting focus to what he described as his own political sacrifices—most notably stepping aside in the 2022 gubernatorial race.
“If it is about who helped who politically, then let it be known that in 2022, the people of Siaya overwhelmingly wanted me to run for governor,” Wandayi said. “However, upon the request of Raila Odinga, I stepped down in favour of Orengo. Had we gone to nominations, he would have seen dust.”
The remarks mark a significant escalation in the simmering rivalry between the two Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) heavyweights, with Wandayi framing Orengo’s comments as a diversionary tactic.
According to the CS, the governor is avoiding scrutiny over his administration’s performance by resorting to “political gimmicks.”
“This is not the time to tell us who helped who out of prison or who made who become an MP,” Wandayi said. “It is time to account to the people of Siaya.”
Wandayi further warned that Siaya residents would not relent in demanding transparency and results from the county leadership, signaling a growing undercurrent of political tension ahead of the next electoral cycle.
In a thinly veiled challenge, he told Orengo to brace for a bruising contest should he seek re-election.
“If he intends to defend his seat, he must be ready to face the people and go through party nominations like everyone else,” he said.
The CS also used the platform to rally support for President William Ruto’s administration, urging residents to back ongoing development initiatives and take advantage of national government programs.
He emphasized the importance of voter registration among the youth, framing it as a strategic tool to enhance the region’s political bargaining power.
“Numbers matter in politics. Our young people must come out in large numbers to register as voters and shape the future of this region,” Wandayi added.
Ugunja MP Moses Omondi, who accompanied the CS, defended the broad-based government arrangement, describing it as a pragmatic approach to accelerating development rather than a matter of political convenience.
He expressed optimism about ongoing infrastructure projects in Siaya, noting that collaboration between national and local leadership would be key to unlocking the county’s economic potential.
The exchange between Wandayi and Orengo underscores deepening political fault lines in Siaya, with both leaders positioning themselves ahead of what promises to be a high-stakes electoral contest.
As the rhetoric intensifies, residents now find themselves at the center of a widening debate—one that pits political loyalty against the urgent demand for accountability and development.
