In a sharp rebuke of the recent political realignment, close allies of opposition leader Raila Odinga have vocally condemned the burgeoning relationship between President William Ruto and the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition.
Siaya Governor James Orengo on Friday, July 26, has been particularly outspoken, labelling the move a grave mistake with potentially serious repercussions.
Governor Orengo criticised the decision of some of his colleagues to align with the government, arguing that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) should avoid forming what he described as an unholy alliance with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
He emphasised that any cooperation should come with stringent conditions and be anchored in constitutional provisions.
"We must recognise that the current government is that of Kenya Kwanza. Any terms of engagement must be clearly defined and enshrined in law," Mr Orengo asserted.
He further cautioned against the precedent set by President Ruto’s recent actions, referencing a visit to Mombasa where Ruto referred to Hassan Joho as his Cabinet Secretary.
Orengo drew parallels to the coalition government of the late Mwai Kibaki, where ministerial appointments required consultation with Raila Odinga.
He warned of the dangers of unchecked power, suggesting that without legal safeguards, the alliance could unravel unpredictably.
“What if President Ruto decides to dismiss his Cabinet Secretaries as he did previously? We must not allow excitement to overshadow the importance of structured and enforceable agreements,” Orengo stated.
He elaborated on the need for formalised agreements, likening the current situation to a marriage without a certificate. "Tomorrow, if Ruto decides to sack people again and there’s no enforceable document, it's like newlyweds without a marriage certificate."
Orengo also addressed the generational divide, urging ODM leaders not to disregard the voice of Generation Z. He stressed their significance in the political landscape and the necessity of including them in all plans.
Roots Party leader Prof George Wajackoyah echoed Orengo’s sentiments, vehemently rejecting any involvement with President Ruto’s government. He condemned the idea of benefiting politically from the sacrifices made by young protestors, emphasising the bloodshed during street demonstrations.
"We cannot feast on the blood of young people who took to the streets. Their sacrifices must not be in vain. Leaders have stolen from Generation Z and are running away with their future," declared the former presidential candidate.
Prof Wajackoyah also took a swipe at the church, accusing it of losing focus by calling for public prayers for peace, implying that more concrete actions were needed.
