Ugenya Member of Parliament David Ochieng has challenged Siaya Governor James Orengo to step aside and clear the path for a younger generation of political figures. He argued that Orengo’s generation has already served its time and should now focus on mentoring emerging talent rather than remaining at the center of political power.
Speaking in Sega, Ochieng directly addressed Orengo’s frequent references to his long-standing position in Kenyan politics. He reminded listeners that Orengo’s peers, who fought alongside him during Kenya’s constitutional struggles, have since transitioned out of active political roles.
“You know, I have heard James Orengo saying that he is the most senior politician in the country. I have heard him say this so many times,” Ochieng said. “All of them left the scene for young people to come in and lead the country,” he added, citing senior figures like Gitobu Imanyara, Kiraitu Murungi, and Musikari Kombo as examples of leaders who relinquished their positions to allow new voices to emerge.
Ochieng urged the governor to channel his vast political experience into guiding up-and-coming leaders.
“This is the time to mentor other young people so that they can grow and lead the country while you watch,” Ochieng said.
Championing Constitutional Freedoms and Democratic Choice
Ochieng asserted that the freedoms of choice, expression, and conscience – for which Orengo’s generation campaigned – were designed to let citizens select their leaders freely.
“Those are the rights we fought for, so that people can choose who they want,” he said.
Defending the constitutional right of all politicians to contest elective office within legal term limits, Ochieng stated that voters retain the ultimate power to decide their representatives. He called on political actors to move away from perpetual confrontation and prioritize economic strategies that improve everyday living standards.
Pointing to a biblical premise that every season has its purpose, Ochieng urged leaders to replace political hostility with economic development.
“This is not a time to fight anymore. This is not a time to throw stones,” he said.
Prioritizing Economic Growth Over Political Squabbles
The MP further urged leaders to work with the government in power on development. He said they should avoid political confrontation for its own sake.
“This time is for us to plan how our good fertile grounds will be used to plant cotton so that we can have textile factories from home all the way to Busia,” he said.
He urged regional politicians to partner with the current national administration to secure growth opportunities for their constituents, asking, “This is the time for us to go to the government of the day and plan: how do we empower our people?”
CS John Mbadi Condemns Political Violence and Intimidation
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, who also spoke at the event, echoed calls for peaceful political dialogue and criticized tactics involving political intimidation.
“I did not bring goons; I did not bring hooligans. I came as a citizen,” Mbadi said.
Mbadi stated that politicians reserve the right to campaign across the nation, but he firmly warned against introducing armed groups or political gangs into local communities. He called on leaders to allow peaceful political competition and to nurture fresh political talent instead of relying on divisive strategies.
Addressing Governor Orengo directly, Mbadi urged the veteran politician to show respect toward fellow leaders and the surrounding community.
“Mr Orengo, respect other leaders. Mr Orengo, respect your community,” he said, warning that political maneuvers aimed at dividing the electorate have failed to yield progress in the past and will not work going forward.
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