Siaya Governor James Orengo said on Saturday that the Luo community must remain united and secure a strong role in negotiations over Kenya’s political future, as debate intensifies ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking at a political rally in Ahero, Kisumu County, Orengo said the community should have a seat at the table where major national decisions are made.
“As Luo community, we must be on the negotiations table. I must be on that table and therefore Luos must be united,” he said.
Orengo was addressing supporters of the Linda Mwananchi movement ahead of a planned national declaration rally in Nairobi.
He urged Kenyans to maintain pressure for political change, drawing parallels with the campaigns for multiparty democracy and the 2010 constitution.
“Just like when we wanted the new constitution and multiparty, we did not look back. We fought hard until we achieved multiparty and constitution in the country that Kenyans are now enjoying,” he said.
The governor also challenged what he described as reluctance by some leaders to support alternative political views, particularly calls for changes in national leadership.
Orengo, who has declared interest in the presidential seat, said people from the Nyanza region should not regard the presidency as beyond their reach.
“If Karachuonyo and Alego can give birth to a son to become a president in the United States of America (USA) former President Barack Obama, then what can bar a son from Nyanza region to become a president?” he said.
He called on the Luo community and other Kenyans to work together to pursue what he described as better governance and leadership.
“We cannot be cowards when it comes to the presidential seat. We must unite and work together to win the presidency and bring a new change to our country that Kenyans have been yearning for,” he said.
Orengo’s remarks come as Kenyan politicians position themselves for the 2027 election, with alliances, succession and the future of the opposition emerging as key issues.
His call for a stronger regional role has drawn differing reactions from political leaders, some of whom have questioned approaches to engagement with the government and the opposition’s strategy for the next presidential contest.
Governor Orengo was addressing a rally at Ahero Town after attending the burial of Nehemiah Anyange Onyango, the brother of his friend Jamaasai, in Boya, Kisumu County.
Supporters of the Linda Mwananchi movement say it is seeking to build a broad political platform, while critics have questioned its strategy and ability to unite different regions around a common agenda.
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