Governor Orengo Declares ODM Dead, Proclaims Himself Chairman of Linda Mwananchi Party Ahead of 2027 Elections

BUNGOMA — July 26, 2026 - Siaya Governor James Orengo has declared the Orange Democratic Movement party “dead,” announcing his leadership of the newly formed Linda Mwananchi Party.

Speaking during mobilization activities in Western Kenya, Orengo said the new political outfit will serve as the vehicle for advancing their agenda ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Orengo accused President William Ruto of having no chance of re-election, alleging that his administration has oppressed youth opposed to his government and plundered public resources, including land. He also criticized the high cost of living, saying Kenyans can no longer afford basic commodities.

The governor further claimed ODM lost its identity after sidelining Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, following internal wrangles that intensified after Raila Odinga’s death. Addressing supporters at Posta Grounds in Bungoma, Orengo said ODM’s leadership had abandoned its founding principles.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino urged Sifuna to team up with former Vice Presidents Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua to defeat Ruto in the 2027 presidential elections.

Trans-Nzoia governor George Natembeya asked voters from Nyanza region to support Sifuna because the former ODN secretary general always stood by the late Raila Odinga.

Sifuna, who served as ODM’s secretary-general before his removal, echoed Orengo’s sentiments, saying internal changes pushed him away from the party. He recounted his trip to India to bring back Raila’s body and expressed disappointment that ODM officials had already reorganized leadership to install Oburu Odinga as party leader.

Sifuna argued that ODM’s constitution provided a different succession process, insisting Raila’s three deputies should have determined the way forward. He accused the current leadership of aligning with President Ruto’s administration, marking a departure from ODM’s opposition stance.

The Registrar of Political Parties later confirmed changes within ODM’s leadership, with Oburu Odinga officially taking over as party leader. Meanwhile, Orengo and Sifuna have vowed to strengthen the Linda Mwananchi movement as a new political force ahead of the next election.