“I Don’t Go To State House To Beg”; Siaya Governor James Orengo Defends State House Visit, Says Engagement with Ruto Is Constitutional Duty

Siaya Governor James Orengo has defended his recent visit to State House. Critics accused him of political double standards. Orengo said his meeting with President William Ruto was a constitutional duty. He argued that counties must cooperate with the national government to deliver development projects.

Orengo has long opposed the broad-based government arrangement between ODM and UDA. He warned that ODM risks losing its identity if it formally partners with UDA before the 2027 elections. “It’s very wrong. A simple reading of the Constitution shows there should be cooperation between the two levels of government,” Orengo said in an interview with NTV Kenya on Monday, December 29.

The governor explained that several functions handled by the national government, including housing, health, and sports, also fall within county mandates. He said counties must work with the national government to plan and implement projects. “The national government has set up funds for housing, sports and health. Siaya must participate to ensure planning and execution are done jointly,” he said.

Orengo stressed that he did not visit State House to seek personal favors or political deals. He said his engagement is about fairness and equity, which the Constitution requires. “I don’t go to State House to beg. I go because the Constitution requires equity and fairness. Even sub-counties and wards deserve equal treatment,” he added.

During the visit, Orengo secured major support for Siaya County. The package included KSh 8 billion for affordable housing, KSh 2.5 billion for university and TVET hostels, KSh 2 billion for modern markets, and KSh 1.6 billion to electrify over 10,000 homes. Critics called this inconsistent. Orengo said it was constitutional duty, not political compromise. He continues to balance his role as a county leader and opposition stalwart.