Stephen Musungu
James Orengo, a veteran politician, has issued a powerful challenge to the political establishment of Kenya by saying that he would never ask or plead for a place in the State House—this statement highlights the increasing tensions before the 2027 general elections and at the same time indicates a widespread rejection of the old-fashioned government and ruling-class politics.
Orengo’s proclamation is coming on the heels of talks around the leadership and succession over the opposition that are rife in Kenya. The veteran politician, speaking at a political gathering, made it clear that he had never been in the service of the mighty and that he was not going to be in the future for the sake of his public service dreams—which at the same time are wide open and full of promises.Orengo stated, “I do not go to State House to beg,” and projected his line of action as one based on principles and not personal gains. Besides, he would not turn to the current rulers or powerful people for help, as he cannot be just through influence, and he is not soiling his hands with bribes.
His comments were interpreted in a very general way as a direct criticism of the established political order, which is based on the premise that politicians are competing for the support of the rich and powerful to become and stay in power, as well as for the right to use the state’s resources.
In the constantly changing pattern of politics in Kenya, such a stand is radical—especially for those in leadership roles who are looking for wider support in elections that are going to be tough due to competition.
A long-time human rights defender and one of the most knowledgeable persons in the Kenyan Parliament, Orengo, said that his concerns are at the level of policy, representation, and accountability and not at the level of corner-cutting, negotiating, and politicking.
His message finds a warm reception among the voters who are tired of and disappointed with the behind-the-scenes arrangements and elite partnerships that have periodically been the keys to political survival in careers.Analysts of politics assert that Orengo’s remark is indicative of a larger split among the opposition regarding the way to confront the present government and to create a coalition that is both wide and principled.
Some people interpret his comments as a sign of possible disagreement with the leaders who support strategic alliances or compromises to gain influence before the voting day.The position of the veteran has also raised queries as to how one gains the legitimacy of politics in the ever-changing democratic setting of Kenya.
Orengo’s refusal to “beg” for power is a public appeal and power struggle of the citizens with the elite that might win the voters who hate the old political system by linking the issue with their own self-determination.
Orengo’s stressing of the principle rather than the patronage is very vital, as the political party formations move to secure their strategies and position in the next election cycle. Whether his unapologetically independent posture will lead to wider political support or will only deepen existing divisions is yet to be known.
It is quite obvious, however, that Orengo’s outright rejection of the traditional political and social norms has made his voice a necessity in the national debate over leadership, power, and the democratic future of Kenya’s direction.
