Luo Elders Warn as They Put Oburu on the Spot to Settle Differences With Orengo Ahead of Crucial NDC

A section of Luo elders from Siaya County has put Senator Oburu Oginga on the spot, urging him to urgently reconcile with Siaya Governor James Orengo ahead of the upcoming National Delegates Conference (NDC) of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

The elders warned that the simmering differences between Oburu and Orengo are not only dividing opinion at the grassroots but also threatening the unity of the party in its traditional stronghold of Luo Nyanza. 

They cautioned that if left unresolved, the dispute could weaken ODM’s bargaining power nationally as the country slowly shifts focus to the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a consultative meeting in Siaya, former Kisumu mayor Mzee Onyango Radier expressed deep concern over the public nature of the fallout. 

He said both leaders have contributed immensely to the growth of ODM and the political stability of the region, and therefore their wrangles should not be allowed to overshadow party objectives. 

“The public fallout between Governor Orengo and Senator Oburu is tarnishing ODM’s image in Luo Nyanza and beyond. This rift undermines party cohesion and risks weakening ODM’s national influence,” Radier stated.

According to the elders, the upcoming NDC is a crucial event that will shape the future direction of the party. 

They emphasized that internal disagreements could distract delegates from focusing on key policy resolutions and strategic plans meant to position ODM strongly ahead of the next polls.

Former Bondo County Council chairman Naftali Akelo Gwela also weighed in, noting that grassroots supporters are already feeling confused and demoralized by the ongoing exchange between the two senior leaders. 

He warned that such confusion could slow down mobilization efforts and create unnecessary factions within the party.

The elders maintained that they are ready to step in and mediate talks between the two leaders if necessary. 

They urged Oburu and Orengo to embrace dialogue and demonstrate maturity for the sake of party unity and regional stability.