The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Kenya has dismissed reports that Siaya Governor James Orengo has taken over and rebranded the party as a vehicle for his 2027 presidential ambitions. LDP Political Leader Prof. Fred Ogola stated that the party's leadership, branding, and political position remain unchanged. He described the circulating reports as "misleading" and clarified that Ogola remains the party's presidential candidate and leader.
The reports of Orengo's takeover emerged after he was expected to unveil a political party identified by the initials LDP for his 2027 presidential bid. According to reports, Orengo's new outfit would feature blue and white colours and branding associated with the late former prime minister Raila Odinga. An official from the governor's office, Joshua Ayika, said Orengo would unveil the party as the vehicle for his presidential bid.
The development followed Orengo's absence from a Linda Mwananchi retreat in Naivasha, where Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was endorsed as the movement's leader and presidential candidate. Orengo had previously argued that competing presidential ambitions within the movement should be subjected to a credible nomination process.
Prof. Ogola emphasized that the LDP has not authorised any takeover or rebranding, stating that he remains the presidential candidate and political leader of the LDP. He added that there had been "no change in the leadership of the party". Ogola further stated that LDP had not resolved to support Sifuna or any other individual for the 2027 election through its lawful organs.
Ogola said anyone seeking the LDP presidential ticket would have to join the party and follow its constitution, structures, and nomination procedures. He stated that a party does not join an individual, but individuals join political parties. Ogola also claimed that Sifuna and Orengo remain lifetime members of ODM, pay ODM dues, and serve as ODM officials, and therefore could not represent another party.
On the reported takeover, Ogola said no application had been made or authorised by LDP to change its name, symbols, or leadership. He added that nobody can take over the party or declare its support for any candidate or formation without the party leader being consulted.
The competing claims come as opposition figures continue to establish separate political vehicles ahead of the 2027 General Election. The LDP leader added that any future decision concerning alliances or support for a presidential candidate would be communicated through an official statement issued jointly by the party leader and its national officials.
Key points
- LDP party leader Prof. Fred Ogola remains the party's presidential candidate and leader.
- The party denies reports of James Orengo's takeover and rebranding of LDP.
- Orengo and Sifuna remain lifetime members of ODM, according to Ogola.
