Posted: April 24, 2025 3.57PM
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has launched a scathing attack against Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, branding them as saboteurs of President William Ruto’s broad-based government.
Speaking during an appearance on Citizen TV’s Daybreak program on Thursday, Cherargei accused the three prominent ODM politicians of actively undermining President Ruto’s efforts to unite the country through his inclusive government arrangement.
“It is baseless populism and political blackmail. These leaders—Nyong’o, Orengo, and Sifuna—are working to cripple the broad-based arrangement. Their actions are meant to sabotage the success of the government,” said Cherargei.
The broad-based government was forged in 2023 when President Ruto reached a political understanding with long-time opposition chief Raila Odinga, resulting in the inclusion of several ODM figures in key government positions.
However, Governor Nyong’o, Senator Sifuna, and Governor Orengo have since grown increasingly critical of the administration. Nyong’o recently penned a letter to President Ruto, accusing the government of undermining devolution and questioning the relevance of institutions like the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERA).
In the letter, dated April 22, Nyong’o stated that the government’s actions were reminiscent of the authoritarian “Nyayo era” under the late President Daniel arap Moi.
Cherargei dismissed these concerns, arguing that for the first time in decades, Nyanza region has received substantial national projects and appointments. He pointed to the Treasury CS appointment of John Mbadi, an ODM stalwart, as an example of the President’s goodwill.
“For the first time, money is sleeping in Nyanza. Nyong’o must stop playing to the gallery and acknowledge the developments the region is seeing,” he said.
The senator also demanded an apology from Governor Nyong’o to President Ruto, urging Raila Odinga to take a firm stance against what he called “irritating blackmail” from within ODM ranks.
“Nyong’o, Orengo, and Sifuna must stop blackmailing the President. Raila must rein them in before they tear down the unity we’ve built,” said Cherargei.
This political friction emerges amid growing tensions within ODM, as party leaders and members split over how to engage with Ruto’s government. While some back collaboration, others warn of losing political identity and weakening the opposition’s ability to hold the government accountable.
The comments have sparked debate across political circles, with analysts warning that the rift could widen the political divide between ODM’s grassroots supporters and its top leadership.
