The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Siaya Governor James Orengo has reaffirmed his commitment to defending democracy in Kenya, asserting that he will not be intimidated into silence.
Speaking at Bar Ndege and Urenga health centres in Ugenya constituency during a project launch, Orengo emphasized that for democracy to flourish, citizens must speak out against attempts to weaken critical institutions.
He warned against the emergence of authoritarian leaders immune to criticism, stressing the need for leadership grounded in the rule of law, constitutionalism, and honesty.
“I will not betray Kenyans or my country by remaining silent,” he declared.
Orengo also criticized the erosion of democratic norms, particularly in electoral processes, citing cases where legitimate winners were denied office due to manipulation. He argued that Kenya already has a strong constitution and what is needed is adherence to it, not amendments.
“There is no need to amend the constitution for justice to prevail — we simply need to eliminate electoral fraud,” he said.
Orengo, along with Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, has faced backlash from some ODM members for opposing the party’s collaboration with Kenya Kwanza. The two have criticized ODM leaders who they feel have lost touch with public sentiment.
During a funeral on April 12 in Siaya, Orengo reiterated his refusal to blindly support the current government, stating that he will not engage in sycophancy. He encouraged Kenyans to hold their leaders accountable and insisted that services delivered to Siaya should be viewed as rights, not favors.
“We must stand up for our rights if we want a better nation,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Governor Nyong’o has voiced concerns that devolution is being steadily weakened.
