By Lameck Baraza
Ugenya MP David Ochieng has criticized ODM leaders, calling them choir masters, despite their past opposition to his support for President William Ruto.
Ochieng recalled that after realizing ODM party leader Raila Odinga was defeated by an undeniable margin in the 2022 general election, he decided to work with Ruto for development purposes.
The MP recounted how, immediately after the elections, ODM members in Siaya almost attacked his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) offices simply for collaborating with Ruto. Ironically, they are now openly praising and supporting him.
"I'm surprised by what I'm seeing now, ODM leaders have fully embraced the government with such enthusiasm that when CS John Mbadi and CS Opiyo Wandayi speak, you’d think they voted for Ruto," Ochieng remarked.
He pointed out that those who once opposed his support for the Kenya Kwanza government are now leading the chorus in praising President Ruto across Nyanza.
Ochieng urged them not to be selfish but to ensure their regions receive development projects so residents can experience the benefits of being in government.
The Ugenya MP highlighted his success in securing road network projects for his constituency, revealing that the government has awarded him 56 kilometers of tarmacked roads from Masiro-Jera-Sega to Ukwala.
He emphasized that the improved road network would enhance accessibility while boosting Ugenya’s economic status through small and large-scale businesses.
Speaking in Siranga on Monday during the disbursement of Ksh 67 million in bursaries to secondary schools, TVET institutions, and university students, Ochieng also took a swipe at Siaya Governor James Orengo.
He urged Orengo to fulfill his development promises, warning that he should stop embarrassing Ugenya residents with unfulfilled pledges.
The MP further threatened to vie for the governorship in 2027 if Orengo fails to deliver tangible results for Siaya residents.
Meanwhile, political tensions in Siaya continue to rise, with several leaders angling for Orengo’s position due to his reluctance to support the broad-based government he has consistently opposed.
Despite this competition, residents remain skeptical, believing that most contenders are driven by self-interest rather than genuine concern for the county’s development.