Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV’s JKLive, Orengo claimed that a faction within ODM’s “Linda Ground” wing had effectively placed the party “on sale,” alleging that key decisions affecting the party’s leadership were being made after consultation with State House.
He specifically named ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and Kisii Governor Simba Arati, accusing them of participating in meetings that allegedly reshaped ODM’s leadership structure shortly after the reported passing of party leader Raila Odinga.
Orengo alleged that these meetings involved consultations with President Ruto, suggesting a deeper level of political coordination between rival camps than publicly acknowledged.
“The willing sellers are a cabal of ODM officials… I can predict they couldn’t be sitting with a stranger, Ruto, making decisions of the party if he has not bought into the party,” Orengo said.
He further claimed that President Ruto was directly involved in financing ODM activities and hosting meetings at State House and private residences, allegations that have intensified political debate over party independence and state influence.
“President Ruto is the willing buyer. It is not a secret… he is funding even the meeting held in Mombasa,” Orengo added, also referencing alleged government funding of party activities despite outstanding arrears owed to ODM.
Despite the controversy, Orengo maintained that his dispute is not personal, particularly with ODM leader Oburu Oginga, but rather centered on adherence to party constitution and leadership succession rules.
He argued that a leadership vacuum emerged following internal transitions, prompting him to step forward as de facto party leader under the Linda Mwananchi movement ahead of the 2027 political cycle.
As tensions rise, ODM now finds itself at the center of a fierce internal battle that could reshape its future direction.
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