Orengo issues blunt demand as ODM rift deepens: ‘Return Ruto’s money’
Siaya Governor James Orengo has publicly urged leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) who allegedly received funds from President William Ruto to return the money, in a move likely to intensify simmering divisions within the party.
Speaking during a public gathering on Sunday, April 26, 2026, Orengo delivered a sharp rebuke aimed at unnamed party officials, declaring that ODM should distance itself from any perceived financial ties to the government.
“Kuna viongozi walipewa pesa na Ruto, mimi nataka kuambia warudishe hizo pesa kwa Ruto, sisi hatutaki pesa za Ruto,” Orengo said.
(Translation: “There are leaders who were given money by Ruto; I want to tell them to return that money to Ruto—we do not want Ruto’s money.”)
The governor’s remarks come at a time of growing unease within ODM, as sections of the party grapple with how to engage with the Kenya Kwanza administration. His comments underscore an emerging ideological split between those advocating cooperation with the government and those pushing for a more hardline opposition stance.
Orengo framed his position as part of a broader effort to safeguard ODM’s independence and political identity, suggesting that financial influence could undermine the party’s credibility among its supporters.
In a personal aside, the Siaya governor noted that the event marked a rare public appearance in a religious setting since taking on a more active leadership role within the party.
“Tangu nimekuwa ODM leader, this is my first time attending a church gathering,” he added.
While Orengo did not name specific individuals, his remarks are expected to fuel further debate within ODM ranks, potentially setting the stage for a deeper internal reckoning over the party’s future direction.
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