Orengo Clarifies Reasons for India Visit Alongside President Ruto

The unexpected presence of Siaya Governor James Orengo in President William Ruto's delegation to India has sparked new political speculation.

Orengo, a close ally of Raila, has surprised many by joining the presidential entourage. It is worth noting that Orengo travelled to India shortly after hosting a successful fundraising event in the Gem Constituency. The event was attended by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Raila Odinga's wife Ida Odinga. The Siaya Governor has revealed that he had a productive meeting with a delegation from the Indian Government, during which they formalized their agreement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding.

Orengo clarifies that he represented the Lake Region Economic Bloc while in India and further mentions that he has already updated the President on the results of the MoU. The Lake Region Economic Bloc comprises counties such as Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii, Nyamira, Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia, Bomet, Nandi, and Kericho. Mr Orengo states that the projects in Malaba will have a total cost of Sh122 billion. He also mentions that President Ruto has approved both project ideas and they will be discussed further during the President's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

President Ruto has conveyed his endorsement of the initiatives via his social media platforms, vowing to pursue discussions with his Indian counterpart. Mr Orengo has a history of accompanying the President to official functions as evidenced by their joint presence in Siaya County during Ruto's visit to the Luo Nyanza region in October. In addition, Mr Orengo has played host to various esteemed government figures in Siaya County, among them former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria.

On the President's recent visit to Luo Nyanza, the Azimio governors surprised everyone by accompanying him to public rallies and the launch of government projects. It remains uncertain if Mr Odinga sanctioned this move, given that several ODM lawmakers were dismissed by the party for aligning with the President.