“No Crime in Speaking Truth”: Raila Odinga Fiercely Defends Orengo and Nyong’o Over Ruto Criticism
ODM leader Raila Odinga has come out swinging in defense of Siaya Governor James Orengo and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o. The two governors have recently criticized President Ruto’s government, despite a working agreement signed between Raila and the president just last month.
Raila made it clear: the governors have done nothing wrong.
“When Orengo talks, he is talking on the basis of the MoU. He has not committed any crime,” Raila asserted.
MoU Isn’t a Coalition, Raila Clarifies
During a press briefing, Raila explained the nature of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
Though the MoU focuses on ten key areas, Raila emphasized that it is not a coalition. It’s a working partnership, not a political merger.
“We agreed that as the ODM party, we will have a partnership with the government, but that is not to mean we are in government,” Raila said.
Democracy Allows Dissent
“I said that we are in a democracy, and everyone has the right to speak,” he affirmed.
For instance, Governor Orengo has been vocal about alleged mismanagement in Ruto’s administration. Similarly, Nyong’o has accused the government of undermining devolution.
Even ODM Secretary General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has joined the growing list of government critics from within Raila’s camp.
UDA-ODM: Not One Government
Drawing comparisons to the US presidential system, Raila emphasized that collaboration doesn’t mean silence.
“There is no coalition between ODM and UDA. It is an agreement based on an MoU signed between us,” he clarified.
He reiterated that each arm of government — executive, parliament, and judiciary — functions independently. Criticism is part of oversight, not betrayal.
“Parliament oversees the government. The executive implements policies. The judiciary interprets laws,” Raila explained.
Defiance or Democracy?
Raila’s strong stance underscores his commitment to democratic values, even while working with political rivals.
“When Anyang’ Nyong’o speaks, he is talking the language of ODM,” he concluded.
Clearly, Raila is not about to muzzle his team — not now, not ever.
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“No Crime in Speaking Truth”: Raila Odinga Fiercely Defends Orengo and Nyong’o Over Ruto Criticism
