By The Weekly Vision Team
Recent revelations have shed light on the reasoning behind the ODM Central Management Committee’s decision to pick Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Nyong’o as the acting party leader instead of Siaya Governor James Orengo, as some may have expected.
According to insiders and trusted associates of ODM party leader Raila Odinga, Mr. Orengo had been actively campaigning for the position of party leader, with high hopes of succeeding Mr. Odinga. However, as the committee convened, Odinga’s behind-the-scenes influence led to an unexpected shift, in favour of Nyong’o.
Sources suggest that Odinga personally advocated for Nyong’o, leading to speculation about his motives in sidelining Orengo, his long-time ally. It is believed that Odinga initially intended to support Orengo but reconsidered after receiving advice from close associates. They warned that promoting Orengo to party leader could strengthen his bid for the presidency, potentially jeopardizing Raila’s future political ambitions.
Despite Raila currently taking a political sabbatical, if he does not secure the chairmanship of the African Union Commission, he is anticipated to campaign for the presidency in 2027. Given this, Raila was advised that Orengo, if appointed party leader, might not allow Raila to reclaim leadership if he failed in his AUC bid. Consequently, Raila chose Nyong’o, who is seen as a loyal ally with no presidential ambitions.
Reports also suggest that Raila preferred Nyong’o over Orengo due to the latter’s early opposition to the ODM’s involvement in President William Ruto’s broad-based government. Orengo’s vocal dissent, similar to that of Edwin Sifuna, the party secretary general, raised concerns about potential disruptions within ODM. Raila feared that Orengo’s promotion might lead to an alliance with Sifuna that could undermine the party’s cohesion.
Further investigations reveal that Orengo had planned to consolidate support among the 47 county chairmen for his appointment as acting party leader, a move disrupted by Raila. Nyong’o’s name was subsequently proposed and quickly endorsed, catching Orengo off guard.
Supporters of Nyong’o argue that his extensive experience as the party’s secretary general, his unwavering loyalty to both the party and Raila, and his capability to lead effectively makes him an ideal choice to guide ODM during this transitional period.
