The event, which attracted thousands of residents and leaders from across the region, marked a rare moment of public interaction between the two leaders, especially following recent tensions linked to the arrest of some of Orengo’s close aides ahead of the President’s Nyanza tour.
Orengo took to the podium and delivered a short, measured speech, welcoming the Head of State to Siaya while maintaining his political stance. However, what happened immediately after his address is what caught the attention of many.
Moments after concluding his remarks, Orengo calmly stepped down from the stage and quietly exited the venue.
Observers noted that he avoided engaging further in the rally proceedings and did not stay to witness the entirety of President Ruto’s address.
His composed departure, without any visible confrontation or drama, left many interpreting it as a deliberate move to maintain political distance while still honoring the President’s visit.
Despite his early exit, the atmosphere at the rally remained energetic, with sections of the crowd chanting pro-government slogans, including the now popular ‘Tutam’ chants associated with Ruto’s 2027 ambitions.
During his speech, President Ruto emphasized the need for unity and development over political rivalry. He revealed that he and Orengo had agreed to temporarily set aside their differences to focus on serving wananchi.
“We have agreed with James Orengo that we serve the people first. ‘Wantam’ or ‘Tutam’ will be decided by Kenyans, but for now, we will work together,” Ruto stated, drawing cheers from the crowd.
On his part, Orengo reiterated that while he belongs to a different political camp, he respects the presidency and welcomed Ruto’s visit to the county.
“We have welcomed you as the President of Kenya to Siaya County. I have my own politics, but I request that you keep coming back to Siaya,” he said.
The rally, held in Usenge, also brought together key national leaders, including Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi.
Despite his early exit, the atmosphere at the rally remained energetic, with sections of the crowd chanting pro-government slogans, including the now popular ‘Tutam’ chants associated with Ruto’s 2027 ambitions.
During his speech, President Ruto emphasized the need for unity and development over political rivalry. He revealed that he and Orengo had agreed to temporarily set aside their differences to focus on serving wananchi.
“We have agreed with James Orengo that we serve the people first. ‘Wantam’ or ‘Tutam’ will be decided by Kenyans, but for now, we will work together,” Ruto stated, drawing cheers from the crowd.
On his part, Orengo reiterated that while he belongs to a different political camp, he respects the presidency and welcomed Ruto’s visit to the county.
“We have welcomed you as the President of Kenya to Siaya County. I have my own politics, but I request that you keep coming back to Siaya,” he said.
The rally, held in Usenge, also brought together key national leaders, including Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi.
It coincided with the groundbreaking of the Isenge Pier project, symbolizing a temporary political truce focused on development.
Orengo’s brief appearance and swift departure have since fueled discussions about the evolving political landscape in Nyanza as the country slowly shifts focus toward the 2027 general elections.
Orengo’s brief appearance and swift departure have since fueled discussions about the evolving political landscape in Nyanza as the country slowly shifts focus toward the 2027 general elections.
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