Orengo Accuses State of Orchestrating Chaos After Storming Out of Nyikal’s Father’s Burial

Orengo Accuses State of Orchestrating Chaos After Storming Out of Nyikal’s Father’s Burial

Siaya Governor James Orengo has accused state actors of orchestrating chaos during the burial of the father of Seme MP James Nyikal, in an incident that disrupted what was expected to be a solemn ceremony in Kisumu County.

The burial, held at Ridore Primary School in Seme, drew several political leaders and mourners but was overshadowed by tension and disorder after rival political factions reportedly clashed. The situation escalated, prompting Orengo to leave the event abruptly, sparking widespread speculation and political debate.

In a statement issued on the evening of Saturday, April 2, Orengo described the incident as deeply troubling and blamed unnamed state operatives for allegedly fuelling the unrest.

“It is both shameful and a national disgrace that a solemn send-off could be disrupted… The situation became so tense that the clergy had to cut the service short, calling for an immediate burial without speeches to preserve order and dignity,” Orengo said.

According to eyewitness accounts, the tension began when a section of youths in attendance heckled the governor, leading to a confrontation that quickly escalated. Preliminary reports suggested that the youths were aligned to factions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), reflecting emerging divisions within the party.

As the situation intensified, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o was seen intervening in an attempt to calm tensions and restore order. Despite these efforts, the disruption forced organisers to shorten the programme and proceed directly to the burial.

While apologising to mourners, Orengo maintained that his political movement would not be intimidated, referencing his association with the Linda Mwananchi initiative.

“But let it be clearly understood; no amount of intimidation, no teargas, no hired chaos, and no acts of desperation will silence the Linda Mwananchi Movement,” he added.

However, the governor dismissed claims that he had been chased away from the venue, clarifying that his departure was voluntary and guided by respect for the bereaved family and the clergy overseeing the service.

“Contrary to some misreporting, we did not leave the venue because we were ‘chased.’ We departed because the presiding Bishop and Seme MP James Nyikal had already left to proceed with the burial of his father. Our sole purpose for attending was to offer our condolences and stand in solidarity with the family,” Orengo stated.

During the burial, Nyikal himself appealed for calm among leaders and supporters, urging restraint and respect during public gatherings.

“My colleagues, let us make our country peaceful. When we have a function, let there be peace. Must we have a large group of people following us when we have an event?” Nyikal said, addressing the charged atmosphere.

The event brought together several prominent leaders, including Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga. Notably, both leaders refrained from commenting on the chaos, instead focusing on condolence messages shared through their social media platforms.

Political observers note that the incident highlights growing internal tensions within ODM, particularly between emerging factions positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. The burial, which briefly united leaders from across the divide, instead exposed underlying disagreements that could shape future political alignments.

As investigations into the incident remain unclear, Orengo’s accusations against the state are likely to intensify political discourse, with calls expected for accountability and restraint during public events.

Despite the disruption, the ceremony ultimately proceeded, with the family of the deceased laying their kin to rest. However, the events in Seme have left lingering questions about political conduct in public spaces and the need to safeguard dignity during national and community gatherings.

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Orengo Accuses State of Orchestrating Chaos After Storming Out of Nyikal’s Father’s Burial