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• Thu Apr 17 2025

Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda has voiced his disappointment over the comments made by James Orengo and Edwin Sifuna in the presence of President William Ruto

Sifuna and Orengo criticised the Kenya Kwanza government during the funeral of Raila Odinga?s bodyguard, George Oduor

Ojienda slammed the two ODM politicians, asserting that the Raila-led party is now part of the Kenya Kwanza government

Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya

Members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), led by Raila Odinga, remain at odds, trading barbs over differing views on President William Ruto?s government.

Tom Ojienda slammed Edwin Sifuna and James Orengo for calling out government. Photo: Edwin Sifuna/James Orengo/Tom Ojienda.

Source: Facebook

The latest criticism came from Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, who took aim at Siaya governor James Orengo and Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna for criticising the Kenya Kwanza government in the presence of Ruto.

What did Orengo, Sifuna say against Ruto's regime?

Speaking at the funeral of Raila Odinga?s late bodyguard George Oduor?which was attended by Ruto?Orengo said he would not join those uncritically praising the current administration, instead urging for honest and constructive dialogue.

He warned that the nation could face decline if leaders fail to address difficult realities and continue to shy away from uncomfortable truths.

?If we continue with constant praise-singing, we risk losing the country. I urge you to speak truthfully to your leaders. I don?t engage in flattery?I recognise that you are the president, and we will engage in dialogue. When something is brought to Siaya, it?s a right, not a favour," Orengo said.

On his part, Sifuna criticised Ruto?s administration, saying many of the challenges it faces are a result of its own actions.

He highlighted the Echoes of War controversy, where tear gas was used against students during a drama festival, urging President Ruto to assert control over his government.

"These are self inflicted pains. Those people involved in making your work hard read them the riot work. We know your work is very hard and no one should make it even more difficult," he added.

Did Ojienda call out Orengo, Sifuna over remarks?

During an interview with Citizen TV on Thursday, April 17, the Kisumu senator expressed his disappointment with Orengo and Sifuna's comments in front of Ruto.

Ojienda criticised their remarks at the funeral of Oduor, calling them inappropriate and saying that such statements should not have been made to the president.

He also stated that, in his view, the ODM party is now fully integrated into the Kenya Kwanza government following the formation of a broad-based government.

"It was wrong for Orengo and my colleague Sifuna to speak in that manner at the funeral of George Oduor. You don?t address the president like that, especially during a visit to a funeral," Ojienda said.

"As I see it, we are now part of the government. We will remain in government, and in 2027, we will win again and return to serve the people of this country," he added.

Sam Atandi cautions Orengo against attacking Ruto's govt

This comes days after Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi intensified his criticism against Orengo, accusing him of harbouring unnecessary resentment and resisting progress under Ruto?s leadership.

Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi (pictured) accused Siaya governor James Orengo of meddling in national government affairs. Photo: Sam Atandi.

Source: Facebook

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly on Tuesday, April 15, Atandi questioned Orengo?s unwillingness to acknowledge what he described as the president?s inclusive approach toward the Nyanza region, particularly the Luo community, marking a shift from past political marginalisation.

Now serving as chair of the National Assembly?s budget committee, Atandi suggested that those who oppose the administration should be viewed as working against national interests.

Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke