Siaya Governor James Orengo brought comic relief to Raila Odinga’s Opoda Farm home. He was among the politicians who accompanied Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to pay respects to the former prime minister. James Orengo’s antics tickled guests at Raila Odinga’s Opoda Farm. Raila and Kalonzo share a long political history, having twice joined forces in bids for the presidency. In the 2013 General Election, Raila contested the presidency with Kalonzo as his running mate under the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy, but they were defeated by Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto of the Jubilee Alliance. Which gift did Kamba leader give Orengo? In 2017, Raila made another run under the National Super Alliance, again choosing Kalonzo as his deputy, but the pair lost to Kenyatta and Ruto once more.
During his visit to Opoda Farm, Kalonzo presented Ida Odinga with 100 cattle. Accompanied by members of the Wiper Democratic Movement, the Kamba Council of Elders, and representatives from the religious community, Musyoka explained that the gesture symbolised respect, unity, and the enduring friendship between the Kamba and Luo communities. During the visit, one of the elders presented Orengo with a walking stick, prompting a theatrical moment from the governor. “My learned brother. He is progressive, fearless. This is the king of Ukambani; he will present you with this staff,” Kalonzo said. An elderly man walked up to the front. “I knew you when you were in school, and you fought for fellow students. He then fought for Kenya and continues to lead us,” he said and handed over the staff to Orengo.
Soon after receiving the gift, Orengo took off running while shouting, “Jowi.” Kalonzo burst into laughter as the crowd joined in. Orengo energetically ran around while brandishing the walking stick. Ida Odinga was equally amused as she watched the spectacle unfold. He then ran back to the tent where the dignitaries were seated. How did Kenyans react to Orengo’s antics? Many Kenyans admitted that his antics had brightened the mood. Online reactions included: @mcatricky: “Orengo is a good man.” @kitengehubbynahumy: “They made Mama Ida smile.” @josepharantest: “Good vibes.” @silvah_mistarish: “Ida seemed to feel so much at home with these people today.” @jackbirgen: “For a moment, I thought it was AI.” @hassjuniortz: “I love this.”
By William Osoro
