TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

Outspoken ODM supporter Nuru Okanga has ignited political debate after fiercely criticising Siaya governor James Orengo’s surprise visit to State House on Thursday, June 5.

Speaking exclusively to , Okanga questioned why elected leaders must seemingly pledge loyalty to President William Ruto before their counties can benefit from development funding.

The visit, according to Orengo, focused on fostering collaboration between the national and county governments. He announced that Siaya had secured billions in development pledges from the national administration. But Okanga was unconvinced.

"Orengo is a respected lawyer, and we hold him in high regard. I challenge him to come out publicly and tell us which part of the Constitution says an elected leader must go and cry before the president to get funds for development," he said.

He criticised the Siaya governor for abandoning the very constitutional ideals he once fought to establish. According to Okanga, it is the president’s mandate to ensure all 47 counties receive equitable development, regardless of their political affiliations.

"That is undermining democracy and the Kenyans who did not vote for the president. Some regions like Turkana, Isiolo and Mandera are being left behind while the rest of Kenya is developing," he added.

Before the recent visit, Orengo had been one of the most vocal critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration, especially its handshake-like engagements with ODM leaders.

Okanga wondered what could have caused the sudden shift in tone.

"He must come out and tell us what he was given. The country is on a worrying trajectory, and elected leaders are making it worse. It seems some leaders criticise the government only to be called aside, handed some money, and suddenly become silent," he lamented.

Okanga, who has declared interest in the Kholera ward MCA seat in 2027, expressed disappointment at the stalled projects in his region.

He blamed leaders who have, over the years, normalised political alignment for personal gain while clinging to power at the expense of service delivery.

"We must be united. If you choose to stand with the people, do it fully. Don’t switch sides and go to State House to dine while Kenyans are suffering," he told .

He narrated how his financial struggles have escalated due to constant calls from locals begging for as little as KSh 20 to buy food.

He blamed the elected leaders for such dire conditions, arguing that if they remained vocal and independent, the president would be more aware of the people's suffering.

Okanga further warned governors against over-relying on funds from the national government. He urged them to maximise locally generated revenue and prioritise impactful service delivery.

"Let governors stop this habit of waiting for handouts. They should use what they have to improve lives. That is real leadership," he said.

Source: TUKO.co.ke