Linda Mwananchi leaders endorse Orengo as ODM party leader days after crowning himself
By Mustafa Juma, April 25, 2026Leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement faction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have publicly endorsed Siaya Governor James Orengo as the party’s preferred leader.
Led by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, the leaders publicly praised Orengo at a charged Linda Mwananchi rally in Luanda, Vihiga County, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, where Osotsi and Sifuna openly floated his name, declaring that he was their preferred party leader.
During the rally, Orengo’s supporters described him as a seasoned statesman capable of steering the party through its next political chapter, with some leaders suggesting that he already embodies the ideological direction ODM should take going forward.
“James Orengo si anatosha kuwa rais? Sasa kama tuko na Orengo, ni mzee mwingine mgani tunahitaji? Na mimi nataka kuunga mkono kuwa mheshimiwa Orengo wewe sasa ndio party leader wa ODM,” Osotsi said.
When he stood to speak, Sifuna also addressed Orengo as “our party leader”.
Orengo expresses gratitude
Orengo has expressed appreciation for the support, terming it both humbling and energising.
“Humbled by the powerful endorsement from the Linda Mwananchi Principals, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi,” Orengo said in a statement shared via his official X account.
He also thanked supporters in Vihiga for what he described as a “massive reception”, adding that the momentum signalled a renewed push for unity and political mobilisation within the party.
“To the people of Vihiga, your love was felt in every corner. Thank you for the massive reception and for believing in our shared vision. The march to a better future begins now. Tuko Tayari!” he stated.
Orengo crowns himself ODM leader
The developments come just a day after Orengo launched a scathing attack on the leadership direction of the ODM party, declaring himself a “people’s party leader” within the outfit and alleging a scheme to undermine its strength and independence.
Speaking amid growing tensions within the party in Kisumu on April 24th, Orengo claimed ODM was at risk of being “sold to political enemies”, warning that he would spearhead an internal push to safeguard its legacy and influence.
“I am the people’s party leader because ODM is being sold to our political enemies. We must ensure that ODM remains strong, independent, and true to its founding ideals,” Orengo said.
Drawing parallels with South Africa’s liberation struggle, Orengo invoked Nelson Mandela, saying internal resistance was necessary when a movement strays from its mission and pace of change.
Orengo emphasised that his stance was aimed at protecting the political legacy of Raila Odinga and ensuring that the party’s achievements are not eroded or diluted by internal divisions or external influence.
“We must make sure that the legacy and achievements of Raila are not destroyed and that the reach of ODM is not diminished,” he said.
He further insisted that ODM, as one of Kenya’s largest political parties, should not be relegated to a subordinate role in any political arrangement.
“ODM cannot become a junior partner to a party that needed ODM. It is not ODM that needed the union; we must remain the dominant party,” Orengo added.