ODM leaders differ over supporting Ruto government, abductions

Siaya Governor James Orengo has accused some Orange Democratic Movement party members of sycophancy, saying his conscience cannot allow him to "blindly" support the government of President William Ruto without questioning the ills in the administration. "Even if you make compromises, you must do so on principle. Don't be part of praise and worship, we must stand firm," Orengo said on Saturday, January 18 during the burial Kenya National Commission on Human Rights chairperson Roseline Odede in Uyoma Rarieda Sub-county, Orengo asked the opposition to remain firm and be on the right side of history. The governor raised concerns about the surge in abduction cases these past months; calling on the government to put an end to the menace. "Kenya is crying that we must stop abductions, and extrajudicial killings so that we can be a republic. When there is too much sycophancy in government, people lose sight of their fundamentals." Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna who urged ODM leaders serving in the government to call out the injustices occurring in the country. "ODM leaders in government must stop being sycophants and call out Ruto for injustices that are going on in Kenya," he said. Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi supported Orengo’s call for ODM leaders to uphold the party’s values. He emphasized the need to challenge injustices irrespective of one’s position in government. Homa Bay County governor and ODM party chairman Gladys Wanga questioned why other communities want the Luos to remain in opposition. She said the Luos have led most of opposition to the government, adding that it's time for others to lead the protests. Wanga is among leaders who have forged a close working relationship with Ruto's governnent.