Orengo Changes Tune on Ruto Exposing ODM Influence and Political Survival

Siaya Governor James Orengo has made a surprising political shift, openly praising President William Ruto after months of sharp criticism. Just weeks ago, Orengo had accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of failing Kenyans and even demanded Ruto’s resignation.

But on August 31, at St Peter’s ACK Cathedral in Siaya, Orengo welcomed the President warmly, crediting him for development projects in the county and signaling a fresh alliance.

His remarks have stirred questions on loyalty, political survival, and Raila Odinga’s hand in the sudden change.

James Orengo’s sudden praise for President Ruto after months of hostility underscores the fragile nature of Kenyan politics. His admission that Raila Odinga directed the shift highlights the ODM leader’s grip over Luo Nyanza. [Photo: Courtesy]

Orengo Tune on Ruto Surprises Many in Siaya [PHOTOS]

During the Sunday service, Orengo abandoned his combative tone and instead lauded Ruto’s leadership. The governor specifically pointed to ongoing projects such as the construction of a 20,000-seater stadium and the Siaya referral hospital.

“Your Excellency, the President, I want to allay the fears for those who think you don’t have Siaya in your heart,” Orengo told the congregation.

He revealed that Ruto had assured him of another visit to the county on October 16. The statement shocked many who still remember Orengo’s fiery attacks on the same leader in recent months.

The governor also appeared to confirm that ODM leader Raila Odinga influenced his softened tone. He admitted that Raila had personally called him and directed that Ruto be received well in Siaya.

“When Baba says right, we go right. When he says we go left, we go left,” Orengo added, showing that the shift may be less about personal conviction and more about party discipline.

Raila Factor in Orengo Tune on Ruto

Orengo’s remarks make it clear that Raila Odinga’s influence remains central in Luo Nyanza politics. By publicly admitting that his new approach came after a call from Raila, Orengo placed his loyalty firmly within the ODM hierarchy rather than individual conviction.

The governor also used the occasion to announce the upcoming Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference (SITICO 2025). He revealed that Ruto would headline the event, set to position the county as a major investment destination.

The theme of SITICO 2025, “Positioning Siaya as an Investment Destination: Transformative Growth through Trade and Investment,” mirrors the county’s development plan for 2023–2027.

With Raila signaling cooperation and Orengo aligning with Ruto, the conference could be the biggest test of whether political rhetoric will translate into genuine development partnerships.

From Demanding Resignation to Praising Leadership

Orengo’s shift is striking because of his previous position. In July, while addressing residents in Bondo, he declared that Ruto had failed Kenyans and should resign. He accused the government of driving up public anger through poor policies and worsening economic conditions.

At the time, Orengo’s speech echoed the opposition’s nationwide protests against the Kenya Kwanza administration. His message then was that the country could only move forward if Ruto stepped down.

Now, two months later, the same governor is openly praising Ruto’s government for delivering development to Siaya. The sharp contrast has raised eyebrows, with critics calling it political hypocrisy while supporters view it as a pragmatic move.

The public remains divided. Some argue that Siaya stands to benefit from aligning with the government of the day. Others believe that Orengo’s change in tone undermines his credibility and exposes the transactional nature of Kenyan politics.

Conclusion

James Orengo’s sudden praise for President Ruto after months of hostility underscores the fragile nature of Kenyan politics. His admission that Raila Odinga directed the shift highlights the ODM leader’s grip over Luo Nyanza.

For Siaya residents, the test will not be in the words but in whether the promised stadium, hospital, and investment opportunities materialize. Until then, Orengo’s U-turn will remain one of the boldest political recalculations in recent months.