Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has come out guns blazing against individuals he described as “political witches” for spreading false and malicious rumours about Siaya Governor James Orengo’s health.
Speaking on Saturday at Ndori Primary School in Gem, Siaya County, during a high-profile fundraising for the Church of Christ in Africa (CCA), Odinga condemned those who wished death on Orengo during his recent trip abroad. The ODM chief branded the behaviour primitive and dangerous, likening the rumourmongers to witch doctors intent on destabilising the community.
“I was in constant communication with Governor Orengo throughout his time abroad. I do not understand the motive of those who spread these lies. Orengo has returned in good health and is more energised than ever,” Raila declared, drawing applause from the crowd.
Rumours of Resignation and Ill Health
For weeks, speculation had swirled around Orengo’s absence, with claims on social media suggesting that the veteran governor had either resigned or was battling a terminal illness. The ODM leader dismissed the reports as “pure propaganda designed to sow fear and division in Luo Nyanza.”
Odinga insisted that the people must shun toxic politics and instead rally behind leaders driving the region’s development agenda.
Call for Unity Ahead of 2027
With the 2027 General Election looming, Raila urged Nyanza residents to turn away from “gossip and malice” and concentrate on economic growth. He pointed to ongoing efforts to woo investors into the region, highlighting the imminent operations of Shanta Gold, a mining firm preparing to begin large-scale gold extraction in Gem.
“This is the time for our people to focus on prosperity. Investors are ready to work with us, and we must ensure stability, unity, and growth,” Raila said.
Orengo Reaffirms ODM’s Strength
Governor Orengo, who made his first major public appearance since returning to the country, stood side by side with Odinga. He thanked supporters for their patience and pledged to redouble his efforts both as governor and as a senior ODM stalwart.
“ODM remains strong. Even as we work within the broad-based government, we must stay resilient, united, and ready for the battles ahead,” Orengo told the gathering.
His remarks, seen as a direct counter to the rumours of his resignation, reassured party loyalists of ODM’s resolve to remain a dominant political force nationally.
Political Undertones
The fundraiser, though ostensibly a church event, carried clear political undertones. With Raila’s fiery defence of Orengo and Orengo’s rallying call for ODM unity, the event signalled the party’s determination to shield its senior figures from destabilisation campaigns as the countdown to 2027 gathers pace.
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