Siaya Governor James Orengo has called for a binding legal document to formalize the engagement between the ruling government and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), insisting it is crucial to safeguard the party’s interests.
Orengo argued that the current arrangement between ODM and President William Ruto lacks legal grounding, rendering it non-binding, despite five ODM experts already serving within the Ruto-led administration.
Speaking at St Luke Okoyo ACK Church in Central Alego on Sunday, November 23, 2025, during a fundraiser for Ywaya Parish Plaza, Orengo cautioned that ODM risks internal collapse. He warned that party members holding lucrative government positions could be dismissed at any time without a formal legal agreement.
“ODM leaders must be cautious in their dealings with President Ruto. Even those enjoying government perks should ensure there are solid legal grounds protecting their positions,” Orengo said.
He cited the grand coalition between the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and the late President Mwai Kibaki, where a legal framework ensured ministers endorsed by Raila remained secure throughout the coalition’s term. Orengo highlighted that such agreements were vital to preventing arbitrary dismissals, noting that the Luo community has a long history of ministerial representation.
Accompanied by Speaker George Okode, Trade Executive Grace Agola, and former County Council Chairman Aggrey Onyango, Orengo reminded Kenyans of the political sacrifices of leaders such as the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, who endured persecution to protect community and party interests.
While clarifying that he does not oppose supporting Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, Orengo stressed the need for a formal legal framework to prevent betrayal and protect ODM’s integrity. He recalled a similar episode during the Kibaki era when Raila and his lieutenants were sacked, a situation that ultimately contributed to ODM’s creation and the 2010 Constitution.
“Coalitions without proper agreements are risky,” Orengo warned, noting that some critics within ODM defend the government to safeguard personal gains rather than uphold party principles.
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