Siaya Governor James Orengo on Thursday made a political about-turn by leading a high-powered delegation from his county to meet President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. The visit marked a significant move aimed at strengthening collaboration between the national and county governments to fast-track development in the region.

The meeting, which brought together top Siaya county officials and President Ruto’s team, focused on infrastructure, economic empowerment, and service delivery. It came amidst heightened political interest, considering Orengo’s previous critical stance on national government partnerships perceived to sideline constitutional devolved mandates.

“I led the Siaya county delegation in a meeting with President Ruto. We explored partnership opportunities aimed at strengthening collaboration to foster inclusive development and enhance service delivery for the people of Siaya,” Orengo shared through an official post.

Over KSh 5 Billion Investment Pledged

President Ruto used the opportunity to announce major development investments totaling more than KSh 5 billion for Siaya County. These include:

• KSh 1 billion earmarked for the redevelopment of Usenge pier and other port facilities to boost the blue economy.
• KSh 2.5 billion for the construction of 16 modern markets across the county to support small-scale traders and local commerce.
• KSh 1.6 billion for rural electrification to connect over 16,000 households, aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and productivity.

“This visit was a chance to appraise the leaders of ongoing government projects in the region,” the President stated after the meeting.

A Political U-Turn

Orengo’s move to meet the head of state comes shortly after his vocal opposition to the Kenya Kwanza-ODM coalition engagements. The governor had previously asserted that counties are entitled to development as a constitutional right, not as a political reward for cooperation.

Sources indicate that prior to the State House visit, Orengo held consultations with Treasury CS John Mbadi on aligning county development priorities with national funding structures, indicating a deliberate and calculated shift in strategy.

The meeting also appeared to quell internal tensions within Siaya’s political landscape, particularly involving Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi and other national figures with interests in the region.

State House Meeting Was Never Snubbed, Say MCAs

Earlier reports had alleged that Siaya Members of County Assembly (MCAs) had rejected an invitation to State House, igniting speculation of a political standoff. However, the MCAs, led by Majority Leader Martin Otieno, clarified that the meeting had only been postponed due to the absence of key county leaders, including Orengo who was out of the country at the time.

“The visit was rescheduled to ensure unity and inclusivity among county leadership,” Otieno explained, adding that the assembly remains focused on advancing the county’s development agenda.

As development takes the front seat in Siaya’s leadership priorities, the recent meeting signals a potential thawing of political hostility and an embrace of pragmatic engagement for the benefit of residents.