James Orengo Shares Cryptic Message after Welcoming William Ruto to Siaya: “Niko Na Siasa Zangu”

James Orengo Shares Cryptic Message after Welcoming William Ruto to Siaya: “Niko Na Siasa Zangu”

Siaya Governor James Orengo delivered a carefully worded — and widely interpreted as cryptic — message after appearing alongside President William Ruto during a high-profile development event in Siaya County, despite their long-standing political differences.

The two leaders shared a platform on Tuesday, March 24, at the groundbreaking ceremony for the KSh 1 billion Usenge Pier project in Bondo Constituency, a major infrastructure initiative along Lake Victoria aimed at boosting fishing, transport, and regional trade.

Orengo, a senior figure in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has been among Ruto’s most outspoken critics, particularly opposing the so-called broad-based political arrangement and initiatives associated with the party’s rival factions.

Major blue economy investment announced

Speaking at the ceremony, President Ruto framed the pier project as part of a broader strategy to transform the lake region’s economy through targeted investment in maritime infrastructure.

“We are investing KSh 9.5 billion to strengthen blue economy activities along Lake Victoria, consequently creating jobs and improving livelihoods for the residents of the lake region,” Ruto said.

He added that the government plans to establish a fishermen’s rescue centre in Siaya at a cost of KSh 250 million, procure rescue boats worth KSh 70 million, and invest another KSh 70 million in fish cages to enhance aquaculture and safety for local communities.

The president has in recent months intensified development tours across the Nyanza region, citing the need to address historical marginalisation and promote inclusive national growth.

Orengo’s brief but pointed remarks

When his turn came to speak, Governor Orengo formally welcomed the head of state to the county but offered a succinct statement that quickly drew national attention.

“We have welcomed you to Siaya. Keep coming. Personally, I play my own politics. Thank you,” he said.

The remark — loosely interpreted in local political discourse as “Niko na siasa zangu” (I have my own politics) — was viewed by analysts as an attempt to balance courtesy toward the president with loyalty to his political base.

Orengo is closely aligned with the ODM “Linda Mwananchi” faction, which has been critical of cooperation with the current administration and has advocated for stronger opposition positioning ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Ruto responds with conciliatory tone

President Ruto struck a more conciliatory note in response, revealing that he and Orengo had agreed to prioritise service delivery while leaving electoral outcomes to voters.

“We have come into agreement with Orengo that we work for Kenyans. Tutam and Wantam will be a decision of the people,” he said, referencing popular political slogans tied to future election debates.

The exchange highlighted a complex relationship between national and county leadership, where political rivalry coexists with cooperation on development initiatives.

Long-running political tensions

Orengo has previously criticised the president over governance issues and political alignments, including accusations that certain ODM factions had deviated from the party’s founding principles following the passing of longtime leader Raila Odinga.

In separate remarks earlier this year, the governor called for accountability over statements made by the president during a tour of western Kenya, arguing that inflammatory rhetoric from national leaders could deepen political divisions.

He went as far as suggesting that certain comments could amount to constitutional violations, a position that intensified debate over the tone of political discourse in the country.

Development versus politics

Despite these tensions, the Usenge Pier project underscores the government’s strategy of using large-scale infrastructure investments to drive economic activity in lake-dependent communities.

Residents and local leaders say the facility could transform livelihoods by improving fish handling, boosting tourism potential, and strengthening transport links across Lake Victoria\.

Analysts note that Orengo’s participation in the event reflects the practical reality of governance: county leaders must often collaborate with the national government to secure development funding, regardless of political disagreements.

For now, his carefully measured statement appears designed to maintain that delicate balance — welcoming state investment while signalling that his political stance remains unchanged.

As Kenya moves toward the next electoral cycle, such encounters between rival leaders are likely to remain closely watched for clues about shifting alliances, emerging strategies, and the evolving dynamics of national politics.

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James Orengo Shares Cryptic Message after Welcoming William Ruto to Siaya: “Niko Na Siasa Zangu”