Siaya Governor James Orengo has delivered a sharp criticism of the state of Kenya’s democracy, arguing that the country cannot aspire to become a first-world country while it continues to struggle with chaotic, violent and heavily policed elections.

His remarks come in the heat of tense by-elections marked by clashes, accusations of intimidation and rising public concern over the conduct of state agencies.

Speaking through an X post posted on Thursday, November 27, 2025, Orengo said Kenya’s democratic path had taken a worrying turn, noting that the promise of the 2010 Constitution remains far from being realised.

“We can’t be first world if, years after the Constitution 2010, we can’t hold peaceful and fair elections,” he stated.

The governor called out the state of adopting methods that undermine free expression and civic participation, saying the level of force and interference witnessed in the electoral process is unacceptable.

“The militarisation and ‘goonification’ of elections is an evil worse than ‘mlolongo’,” he stated.

His comparison to the infamous “mlolongo” queue-voting system of 1988 reflects the depth of the concerns that the election remains one of the most discredited moments in Kenya’s history, associated with open intimidation and manipulation. Orengo suggested that the current environment mirrors, and in some ways surpasses, that darker era.

The governor also warned that this trend is not unique to Kenya, pointing to signs of authoritarianism creeping across the region.

“The East African neighbourhood is becoming or has been extremely intolerant and despotic,” he stated.

Orengo’s comments take a direct swipe at President William Ruto’s frequent declaration that Kenya is on course to become a first-world nation. The governor argued that no country can achieve such progress without safeguarding democratic values, respect for rights and credible elections.

The by-elections, marred by reports of violence, tension and disputes among political actors, have intensified debate about the health of Kenya’s democracy. Civil society groups and observers have also raised concerns about the heavy presence of security officers at polling stations and allegations of interference by state-linked groups.

As counting continues, Orengo’s remarks add to growing calls for introspection and for the country to confront the gap between its constitutional ideals and on-the-ground reality.