The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Siaya Governor James Orengo has dismissed claims that his visits to State House amount to seeking favours, insisting that his engagements with the national government are grounded in constitutional duty rather than political compromise.
Speaking during a television interview on Monday night, December 29, 2025, Orengo said his interactions with President William Ruto are guided by the principles of equity and fairness outlined in the Constitution, not personal or political appeals for development.
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Orengo explained that the national government runs various programmes in sectors such as housing, sports and health, which require collaboration with county governments during planning and implementation. He said Siaya County participates in such initiatives as a constitutional right.
“I do not go to State House to beg. I go there because the Constitution demands fairness and equal treatment in how the national government operates,” Orengo said.
The governor has been a vocal critic of the broad-based arrangement between the government and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), arguing that the party must retain its identity as a strong opposition force to effectively hold the administration accountable.
His stance has, however, attracted criticism, particularly after his June 2025 meeting with President Ruto, which resulted in major development commitments for Siaya County.
These included Sh8 billion for affordable housing, Sh2.5 billion for student hostels, Sh2 billion for modern markets and Sh1.6 billion for rural electrification targeting over 10,000 households.
Orengo maintained that cooperation between national and county governments is clearly provided for in the Constitution, noting that sectors such as housing, health and sports fall under shared responsibility.
He also warned against rushing ODM into political alliances ahead of the 2027 general election, urging party leaders to exercise caution and resist turning the party into a bargaining tool for short-term political gain.
