Siaya Governor James Orengo has finally addressed speculation about his football loyalties after photos of him wearing an Arsenal jersey sparked widespread discussion among football fans online.
The images, which quickly circulated on social media, showed the governor dressed in Arsenal’s famous red-and-white colours with the name “Baba” printed prominently on the back of the shirt.
The photographs left many Kenyans wondering whether the veteran politician had switched his football allegiance to the North London club.
Speaking during a candid interview with media personality Oga Obinna, Orengo set the record straight, explaining that while he has a soft spot for Arsenal, his heart ultimately belongs elsewhere.
The governor disclosed that he is, first and foremost, a supporter of Spanish football giants Real Madrid.
“I’m a Real Madrid fan. That’s my team,” Orengo stated during the interview, ending any doubts about his primary football loyalty.
However, he admitted that his support for Arsenal in the English Premier League stems largely from his close association with veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, affectionately known to supporters as “Baba.”
According to Orengo, his connection to Arsenal developed over the years through his political and personal relationship with Raila, who was widely known for his passionate support of the English club.
“But for the Premier League, and because of my association with Baba, I happen to support Arsenal,” he explained.
For many Kenyans, Raila’s love for football was no secret. Friends, family members and political allies frequently spoke about his enthusiasm for the sport and his unwavering loyalty to Arsenal.
His brother, Oburu Odinga, previously described Raila as a devoted football enthusiast whose passion extended beyond European football to the local game.
According to Oburu, Raila followed Arsenal closely and also served as a patron of Gor Mahia FC, one of Kenya’s most successful football clubs.
“Raila was a great lover of football. Arsenal was his team. He was also a patron of Gor Mahia Football Club,” Oburu once remarked, highlighting the veteran politician’s long-standing connection to the sport.
Orengo’s remarks come at a time when Arsenal supporters around the world are celebrating a memorable campaign.
The Gunners recently secured the 2025/26 Premier League title, ending a 22-year wait for domestic league glory and delivering one of the club’s most significant achievements in recent history.
The triumph triggered jubilant celebrations among Arsenal fans across Kenya, with social media platforms flooded with congratulatory messages, memes and passionate debates between rival supporters.
The reaction once again demonstrated the immense influence of European football in Kenya, where allegiance to clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea often transcends sport and finds its way into everyday conversations, workplaces and even political circles.
