The current political climate in Siaya County is far from stable. Behind-the-scenes maneuvers and early schemes aimed at unseating Governor James Orengo in 2027 have stirred division and discomfort across the region. The most notable aspect of this plot is that it was not born within the county itself, but rather in State House, Nairobi—curiously, in the absence of Governor Orengo.
According to sources familiar with the developments, a group of Siaya County leaders met at State House and collectively resolved to front the Member of Parliament for Ugenya Constituency as Governor Orengo’s successor. Their plan involved rallying Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to support their mission and build a groundswell of internal dissent.
However, the plot began to unravel when a section of the MCAs rejected the idea, stating openly that they could not turn against Governor Orengo. The matter escalated when news of the scheme reached the constituents of Siaya County. In a sharp response, Siaya County constituents rallied behind their Governor, leading to a political divide right down the middle of the county.
Support for Governor Orengo remains strong in Alego Usonga, Ugunja, Ugenya, Bondo, Gem, and even Rarieda constituencies. The turning point came when Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, fondly referred to as ‘Baba’, learned of the scheme and personally intervened by calling State House. The planned meeting was subsequently postponed indefinitely.
Since then, many of the leaders involved in the scheme have begun to retreat and reassess their position. Only Hon. Opiyo Wandayi has remained active, continuing to receive delegations from Luo Nyanza at his KAWI office . Elisha Odhiambo, the MP for Gem, has been openly criticizing Governor Orengo, though his remarks have failed to capture the attention of the public and Gem constituents . Similarly, David Ochieng of Ugenya has been vocal against Orengo, despite the Governor not being a member of his party MDG.
Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi has taken a quieter stance, seemingly recognizing that his constituents have no appetite for constant attacks on the Governor. Meanwhile, senior leaders such as Dr. Otiende Amollo, Dr. Christine Ombaka, and Dr. Gidion Ochanda have remained notably silent.
Even Dr. Oburu Odinga, a veteran politician and close confidant of Raila Odinga, has softened his tone. After Baba clarified to him that he is not part of the current government nor the so-called “broad-based” government, Dr. Oburu appeared to understand Governor Orengo’s consistent message and chose to de-escalate his position.
What negatively affects Raila Odinga is unlikely to benefit Orengo, Nyong’o, or Oburu, and vice versa.
Politics is dynamic, and it demands a deep understanding of the political language and alliances that shape it. Leaders such as Governor Orengo, Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and Dr. Oburu Odinga share a long-standing political bond as disciples of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. They speak a common political dialect—loyalty to ideals, experience, and the broader vision of Raila Odinga. What negatively affects Raila Odinga is unlikely to benefit Orengo, Nyong’o, or Oburu, and vice versa.
To grasp the full picture of Siaya politics, one must first study its players and alliances closely. Governor James Orengo remains a central figure, not only for his leadership and integrity but also for his deep roots in the political heritage of Nyanza. Attempts to isolate or undermine him without understanding the intricate political web of Siaya are bound to fall short.
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