James Orengo Declares Himself ODM People’s Party Leader Ahead of Kisumu Rally

Siaya Governor James Orengo has now declared himself the “people’s party leader” within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as political tension continues to rise in the region.

Speaking in Kisumu on Friday, Orengo said he is determined to protect the party from what he described as outside political interference. He accused the current ODM leadership of allowing the party’s legacy to be weakened. Reports from Friday’s political events in Kisumu also show growing divisions ahead of the planned Linda Mwananchi rallies this weekend.

According to Orengo, the Linda Mwananchi movement remains one of the strongest groups within ODM and is focused on protecting the interests of ordinary wananchi.

He claimed that the party is under pressure from political rivals and promised to stand firm to ensure ODM is not taken over.

Orengo further said the movement is working to preserve the political legacy left behind by the late Raila Odinga.

He stated that the movement is peaceful and is focused on unity and defending the party from internal and external challenges.

Political activities are expected to intensify over the weekend, with the Linda Mwananchi team scheduled to hold rallies in Vihiga on Saturday before heading to Kisumu on Sunday.

However, the remarks have already sparked reactions from other leaders.

Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi warned leaders attending the Kisumu rally against making statements that may be seen as disrespectful to ODM’s leadership.

Atandi said visitors coming to Kisumu should focus on issues affecting residents and avoid political provocation. Similar warnings were also reported by local media on Friday.

The planned Kisumu rally is now shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political events in the Nyanza region this weekend.