- James Orengo claims William Ruto funded the recent Orange Democratic Movement retreat in Mombasa
- Allegations include payment of air tickets, hotel bills, and allowances
- Orengo accuses some ODM insiders of attempting to “sell” the party politically
- Claims made during a live TV interview on JKL Live
- Remarks expose fresh tensions within ODM over ties with the Kenya Kwanza administration
- No official response had been issued immediately over the allegations
James Orengo has sparked fresh political debate after alleging that William Ruto personally financed the recent Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) retreat held in Mombasa.
Speaking during an interview on JKL Live, the Siaya governor claimed that the President paid for air tickets, accommodation, and allowances for participants who attended the party gathering.
Orengo used the interview to sharply criticise what he described as growing attempts by certain individuals within ODM to align the party too closely with the Kenya Kwanza administration. According to him, some leaders were allegedly willing to compromise the party’s independence for political convenience.
The veteran politician further claimed that it was now common knowledge that President Ruto had become deeply involved in ODM affairs, pointing to meetings allegedly held at State House and the President’s private residence in Kilgoris.
He argued that the reported funding of the Mombasa retreat raised serious political questions, especially for leaders associated with the “Linda Ground” faction, whom he accused of taking contradictory positions by supporting the broad-based government arrangement while simultaneously demanding financial support.
Orengo maintained that ODM remains united despite the internal disagreements, insisting that there are forces attempting to weaken or commercially influence the party from within.
“The orange is not split,” he reportedly stated, while warning that he and his allies would resist any effort to undermine the party’s identity and independence.
The remarks have intensified speculation about internal divisions within ODM as political realignments continue to shape the country’s evolving political landscape ahead of the next election cycle.
By the time of publication, there had been no immediate official response from either State House or ODM leadership regarding the claims made by Orengo.
