Siaya Governor James Orengo has declared himself the “people’s party leader” within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), accusing the current leadership of undermining the legacy of party leader Raila Odinga.
Speaking in Kisumu on Friday, Orengo claimed that the Linda Mwananchi faction remains the last “steady wheel” holding together ODM, which he said is under increasing pressure from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
“ODM Is Being Sold” – Orengo
Orengo alleged that the party is at risk of being weakened by external forces and internal divisions, positioning himself as a defender of its core values.
“ODM is being sold to our political enemies so I will stand firm… Orengo is the people’s party leader within ODM to make sure ODM is not swallowed, and secondly to make sure that the legacy and the achievements of Raila Amollo Odinga are not destroyed,” he said.
Linda Mwananchi Movement Gains Momentum
The governor described the Linda Mwananchi faction as a corrective force within ODM, aimed at safeguarding party unity and resisting what he termed as external interference.
Kisumu County is now bracing for a major political showdown, with the Linda Mwananchi team ramping up mobilization efforts ahead of a highly anticipated rally in the lakeside city.
Tension Ahead of Kisumu Rallies
With rallies scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday, political temperatures continue to rise in the region. Leaders allied to the movement have insisted that the meetings will proceed as planned despite alleged threats of disruption.
The developments signal deepening divisions within ODM and set the stage for a potentially intense political contest as factions battle for influence ahead of future elections.
