Orengo Endorses Matiang'i for President, Exposing Rift with Sifuna

Siaya Governor James Orengo has publicly declared his support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i's presidential bid ahead of the 2027 General Election. Speaking at an ACK church in Kisii, Orengo urged the Kisii community to unite behind Matiang'i, describing him as a national leader. He praised Matiang'i for his collaboration with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying Odinga regarded Matiang'i as a son. Orengo stated his availability to work with Matiang'i.

Orengo's endorsement of Matiang'i exposes a growing rift with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who is also vying for the presidential ticket. The two leaders had previously met on September 4 to ease tensions surrounding their competing ambitions. However, Orengo's absence from a Linda Mwananchi principals' retreat on September 26 and the official launch of Linda Mwananchi's political vehicle on October 30 hinted at a widening gap. Orengo had sent apologies for attending to an ailing family member.

Kiharu MP and People’s Party of Kenya (PPK) leader Ndindi Nyoro, present at the event, criticized President William Ruto for disrespecting former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Nyoro urged Ruto to stop verbally attacking other leaders, including Matiang'i, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Matiang'i dismissed attempts to intimidate him politically, describing Kenya as a democratic country.

Matiang'i maintained that the opposition is united, with the objective of ensuring President Ruto serves only one term. He made these remarks in Kisii town, despite reported attempts to intimidate him. “You told me not to come to Kisii town. I am here. Come and beat me,” he said. Orengo had previously expressed interest in contesting for the Linda Mwananchi movement's presidential ticket, insisting on an open nomination process.

The rift between Orengo and Sifuna became apparent after Orengo skipped the official launch of Linda Mwananchi's political vehicle. His absence was linked to his growing focus on establishing his own Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which he intends to use to defend his Siaya gubernatorial seat. Sifuna was endorsed as the movement's presidential candidate during the principals' retreat.

Orengo's endorsement of Matiang'i is seen as a significant move in the 2027 presidential race. Matiang'i's presidential bid has gained momentum, with Orengo's support expected to boost his chances. The endorsement also highlights the divisions within the opposition, with some leaders vying for the presidential ticket.

The developments are likely to shape the opposition's strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election. With Orengo's endorsement of Matiang'i, the focus shifts to how Sifuna and other leaders will respond. The opposition's unity and strategy will be crucial in challenging President Ruto's administration.

Key points

• Orengo endorses Matiang'i for president, amid growing rift with Sifuna.
• The endorsement exposes divisions within the opposition, with some leaders vying for the presidential ticket.
• Matiang'i's presidential bid gains momentum with Orengo's support.