Speaking during an interview on Obinna TV aired on Saturday, May 23, 2026, the Siaya Governor questioned the professional credentials of some of the leaders who were incorporated into the government following political cooperation between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Orengo particularly singled out Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, arguing that he lacks the technical background required to be considered an expert in the energy sector.
“Wandayi is not an expert. I don’t think he went for training in a chemical institute or any training in the oil industry,” Orengo said during the interview.
The governor appeared critical of the growing narrative that the four ODM-linked Cabinet Secretaries joined government on the strength of technical competence and professional specialization.
According to Orengo, political appointments should not automatically be equated with expertise.
Although he did not dismiss the leaders’ political experience, Orengo maintained that expertise in highly technical ministries should be measured through formal training and industry knowledge rather than political standing.
The remarks are likely to fuel fresh debate within ODM, where divisions have continued to emerge over the party’s relationship with President Ruto’s administration.
While some leaders have defended cooperation with the government as necessary for national unity and development, others within the party have remained openly critical of the arrangement.
The four Cabinet Secretaries, who have at times been referred to by supporters as the “four experts,” were politically accommodated in the broad-based government arrangement that brought together sections of ODM and Kenya Kwanza leadership.
Orengo has consistently positioned himself as one of the strongest voices within ODM advocating for the party to maintain its independence and opposition identity despite the ongoing cooperation between Raila Odinga allies and the government.
Political observers say his latest comments may deepen internal discussions within ODM over loyalty, ideology, and the direction the party should take ahead of the 2027 General Election.