Kenyans React as Orengo Gives Ruto a Warm Reception in Siaya Despite Public Criticism

William Ruto is in Siaya County as part of his development tour of the Lake Victoria region, where he is presiding over the groundbreaking of the Usenge Pier project.

The government says the project is expected to boost fishing activities, improve water transport, and accelerate growth in the region’s blue economy.

The visit also includes engagements with local leaders, among them Siaya Governor James Orengo, as the national government seeks to strengthen collaboration with county administrations on development priorities.

However, Ruto’s meeting with Orengo has sparked widespread reaction online, raising eyebrows among Kenyans.

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James Orengo on criticizing the government

This comes after Siaya governor James Orengo has been recently criticizing William Ruto in several public forums. While speaking at a public event in Siaya County ahead of the President’s development tour, Orengo accused security agencies of unfairly arresting members of his county staff shortly before the visit.

He also used earlier public gatherings, including a burial ceremony in the region, to say he would not join leaders supporting the government and called for Ruto’s impeachment over his remarks against opposition leaders and his leadership style.

Orengo has also said in public statements around Siaya that some of the President’s conduct and policies are not helpful to citizens, and he questioned how the national government was handling political engagement with opposition areas.

Internet users have been talking about the situation on the internet as Siaya governor James Orengo is seen in a photo giving President Ruto a warm welcome.

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What netizens are saying

Netizens are questioning where Orengo stands at the moment.

An X user with the username @NyotoP2 Mwangi wrote on X that “We’ve repeatedly told you that Siaya governor Orengo visits state house at night more often than Honourable Oscar Sudi and CS Kipchumba Murkomen combined, yet you refused to believe. Here he is, excited like a kid in Disneyland, welcoming President Ruto to his county…hii imeenda.”

Another X user @ FOndeche said, “he is performing his duties, nothing more.”

@MC Weche also typed on X saying, “If he visits the state house often, why would meeting Ruto, the person he sees quite often, excite him??”

On the other hand, another X user by the username @ Ngugi jnr said, “ I wonder how the Alego Usonga budget chair will feel and behave today. Orengo is the Siaya governor and had to host the president in his county.”

This incident has left netizens divided, with reactions ranging from amusement and disbelief to neutral observations about protocol and leadership responsibilities.

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President Ruto speaking in Siaya
PHOTO/President Ruto X