Victor Elvis Mugambi
CS John Mbadi has made significant claims suggesting that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga personally facilitated the election of Governor James Orengo as the Siaya gubernatorial candidate. He described this move as a "retirement plan" from national politics, implying strategic political maneuvering.
His remarks highlight the enduring political relationship between Raila and Orengo, pointing out that their disagreements are not recent but date back several decades. According to Mbadi, Raila Odinga’s influence in securing Orengo’s position is part of broader internal party strategies.
Raila Odinga's Political Strategy and the Siaya Gubernatorial Seat
Mbadi alleged that after the death of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Orengo was viewed by some as a potential Luo political leader. However, he claimed Orengo ignored advice to distance himself from Michael Wamalwa’s political camp due to the controversial Goldenberg scandal allegations. Instead, Mbadi asserts, Orengo aligned with Raila Odinga, leading to resentment and internal tensions.
Furthermore, Mbadi accused Orengo of teaming up with Ababu Namwamba in 2013, attempting to wrest control of ODM from Raila, which adds another layer of complexity to their political rivalry. These claims come amid renewed debates within ODM regarding leadership and internal party cohesion.
Orengo has not publicly responded to Mbadi’s allegations, leaving the political community to speculate on the implications of this dispute for ODM’s future and internal stability. The claims, if substantiated, could influence internal party dynamics and broader political alignments in Kenya.
