Kisumu West MP Roza Buyu has criticized Siaya Governor James Orengo over remarks he allegedly made against ODM national chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga during a political tour of Homa Bay County.
Buyu described the comments as disrespectful and demeaning to women in leadership, saying they undermine progress made toward gender equality in Kenyan politics.
Orengo, who has been leading the Linda Mwananchi faction within the ODM party, reportedly criticized Wanga during engagements in Homa Bay on Monday, prompting backlash from several leaders allied to the party.
Buyu while reacting over the sentiments on Tuesday said leaders of Orengo’s experience should promote respectful political discourse, particularly when addressing fellow elected leaders.
“Governor Orengo is a seasoned politician who should know better than to demean women leaders in public. Such statements are reckless and unacceptable in modern leadership,” she said.
The legislator defended Wanga’s leadership record, emphasizing that both governors were democratically elected and deserved equal respect.
“Governor Wanga was elected just like Governor Orengo. He has no reason whatsoever to look down upon her because she is a woman,” she said.
Buyu further argued that Wanga’s development record and public approval ratings compared favorably with those of the Siaya governor.
The MP, who is also a member of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association, said the remarks were offensive not only to Wanga but also to women serving in leadership positions across the country.
“As women leaders and members of KEWOPA, we will not allow men to erase the gains women have fought for over the years,” Buyu said.
She added that women leaders would continue to resist what she described as attempts to intimidate or sideline female politicians.
Buyu also linked the dispute to ongoing political competition within ODM, alleging that Orengo was pursuing regional influence in Nyanza politics amid internal party rivalry.
“This is about selfish political interests and supremacy battles within ODM,” she claimed. The MP added that the women leaders will not be intimidated or silenced.
The comments come amid growing political tensions within ODM party as leaders position themselves ahead of anticipated political realignments in the region.
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