Embattled Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has paid glowing tribute to Siaya Governor James Orengo, describing him as a political mentor and comrade in the struggle for a better Kenya.

In a heartfelt birthday message shared on social media on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Sifuna expressed admiration for the veteran politician’s long-standing commitment to democratic ideals and reformist politics.

Sifuna further recounted the time Orengo worked closely with his late uncle Lawrence Sifuna during the second liberation fight when they formed a team that was labelled as the seven bearded sisters over their stance against the late President Daniel Arap Moi’s leadership.

“Omwami @orengo_james, I’m honoured to even know you, privileged that I get to learn at your feet, an inexplicable twist of history that I get to call you a comrade in a fight for a better Kenya, just like you did with my Uncle Lawrence. Mimi yangu ni kukuombea maisha marefu. Happy Birthday, Sir! History will be kind,” Sifuna wrote on X.

Mentor in the reform struggle

Orengo, a seasoned lawyer, has long been associated with Kenya’s pro-democracy struggles, dating back to the second liberation era. His political journey has made him a reference point for many younger leaders within the opposition.

He recently teamed up with Sifuna and other ODM rebel MPs to form the Linda Mwananchi movement, a political formation that has taken a firm stance against the leadership of President William Ruto.

Linda Mwananchi team

The Linda Mwananchi team, which includes Sifuna, Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, his Suba South counterpart Caroli Omondi, and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsia, has been labelled as “ODM rebels” due to their outspoken opposition to Ruto’s administration.

The group has been at the forefront of rallies and public engagements criticising government policy, arguing that their actions are aimed at safeguarding democratic accountability and protecting wananchi from economic hardship.

The group’s most recent rally is the Kakamega Linda Mwananchi meeting that was held at Amalemba grounds on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

During the Kakamega meeting, the group announced a one-month break due to the ongoing Ramadan period, after which they will tour Mombasa and other counties.

Orengo’s association with the brigade has added weight to the movement, given his stature within opposition politics and his historical credentials as a defender of constitutionalism.