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How a Church Came to the Aid of a Total Orphan Who Scored Straight A’s in KCSE

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lom robb
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By Habil Onyango
Parents, teachers, and students are celebrating the recently released Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) 2025 results.

Many parents whose children performed exceptionally well have showered them with expensive gifts, and some are even treating their families to vacations at luxurious hotels across the country.

However, for Derrick Otieno Oyugi, these results only bring back memories of his late parents, making him wish that he had someone to celebrate his success with.

Oyugi, who sat for his KCSE at Maseno School, scored straight A’s in all eight subjects, including English, Kiswahili, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, and Business Studies.

Oyugi lost his mother and a sister in a road accident a year before he lost his father while he was in class five at a primary school in Ndhiwa Sub County, Homa Bay County.

“We faced a lot of frustrations after becoming orphans at such an early age, and at one point, I was forced to drop out of school to provide for the family,” he recalled.

“We struggled to access basic needs like school uniforms and food since there was no one to support us.”

As his hopes of continuing his education dwindled, Oyugi was identified by a kind neighbor who connected him with Bishop Daniel Ochieng of the Ebenezer Christian Church Assembly.

Recognizing Oyugi’s potential and need, the bishop offered support for his education.

According to the bishop, the church has supported Oyugi since he was in standard five at Ebenezer Christian School, located in Rongo Sub County, where he consistently excelled throughout his schooling.

He ultimately topped his class with 411 marks, earning a place at Maseno School, where he was one of the top students for all four years.

“In his final year, he topped a class of over 800 students,” revealed Bishop Ochieng, who oversees the church.
Bishop Ochieng shared that Oyugi comes from a low-income family and is the only boy.

He currently lives with his elder sister, who is also struggling to make ends meet through small businesses.
The bishop also mentioned that the church is paying for Oyugi’s younger sister, who is in form three at Ogande Girls School.

“The boy has excelled remarkably despite coming from a challenging background marked by the loss of both parents,” he added.
The church sponsors over 100 needy students across the country by covering their school fees and addressing other basic needs.

However, the bishop lamented the limited resources available to them and appealed for support from the national government and political leaders to help assist these needy students, most of whom are total orphans.

“We are receiving overwhelming requests for support, but we are unable to fulfill them due to a lack of sufficient resources,” he explained.

“The resources we have come solely from contributions by kind-hearted church members, and they are not enough to meet the demand.”

Oyugi’s mission is to become a neurosurgeon in his university education.

“My main goal is to become a neurosurgeon in the future, and I also wish to support other needy students who are unable to access quality education due to various challenges,” he stated.

The Kilfi meeting: Make or break for ODM as lobbying intensifies to avert fallout

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lom robb
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By Team

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Central Committee will tomorrow converge in Kilifi in what insiders describe as a make-or-break moment for the party, as intense lobbying intensifies to avert any fallout.

Sources told Western Insight that the meeting’s main agenda is to discuss coalition arrangements with President William Ruto’s UDA ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, attempts to prevail upon ODM party leader Dr Oburu Odinga to postpone the meeting flopped after he was enraged by last week’s meeting between James Orengo, Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, and former Busia Governor Amos Wako on possible ways to end the fallout in the party.

Sources intimated that Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, who is also the Minority Whip in the National Assembly, unsuccessfully tried to prevail upon Oburu.

“Millie Odhiambo approached Dr Oburu to postpone the Central Committee meeting and allow members to develop common ground for the party and contain any fallout. But an unhappy and enraged Oburu did not heed the peace call,” sources told Western Insight.

In a significant move, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga on Saturday met Mama Ida Odinga in what is viewed as a calculated move to heal the party.

Sources revealed that because of the sensitive nature of the discussion, Wanga and Mama Ida took over two hours walking around the compound and only returned to the house after concluding the meeting.

“Yes, it is true Governor Wanga phoned Mama Ida and Mama asked her to come home. They did not sit in the house but decided to walk around the compound. At one point, they were engrossed in the meeting and later embarked on chatting, laughing, and plucking flowers and leaves,” our sources revealed.

On Friday in Alego, Oburu said the party would soon establish a committee to spearhead coalition negotiations with President Ruto’s UDA party.

Dr Oburu said ODM would form a team to negotiate with President Ruto on the terms of a new coalition alliance, adding that first preference would be given to President Ruto.

“Now, as we approach 2027, we are not going to get into government through the back door. We are going to have a negotiated arrangement, which will be headed by me.

It will not be easy but a tough negotiation. We will get our share. 2026 is the year of negotiations for any arrangements.

Either we go into partnership with UDA or any other party.

We will soon establish a negotiation team. We will start negotiating with others because it is difficult for a party to go it alone without seeking the support of other parties.

The negotiations will start with our current partners in the broad-based arrangement. We shall only go to others if we do not agree,”he said.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi asked Oburu to invoke the party constitution to call a meeting to elect a team to spearhead the coalition talks.

“As the duly elected ODM party leader with all the powers conferred on you under the ODM Constitution, I want you, Dr Oburu, to invoke Article 16, Sub-Article 1(f) of the ODM Constitution and embark on serious negotiations on behalf of ODM with President William Ruto and the UDA for purposes of developing a pre-election coalition agreement.

We cannot afford to wait until 2027 to start planning for the 2027 elections. Those negotiations must commence now, and the person mandated by the party constitution is Dr Oburu.

That mandate is not shared with anybody else under the Act, and we expect Dr Oburu and the leadership, as you proceed with those engagements, to take into consideration the time factor,”he said.

Key Functions and Responsibilities

The functions and responsibilities of the ODM Central Committee include:

Strategic Planning and Policy: The committee meets regularly to deliberate on key party matters, national policy positions, and overall strategy. This includes shaping the party’s vision and ensuring policies align with its core values of social justice and democracy.

Internal Governance and Unity: A major responsibility is fostering unity among party organs and members, handling internal disputes, and ensuring discipline and proper order within the party in accordance with the ODM Constitution.

Elections and Nominations Oversight: The committee oversees the party’s election processes, including ratifying the reconstitution of bodies such as the National Elections Board (NEB) and the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC). This includes:

Reviewing reports on appeals and results of grassroots elections.

Devolving election management to the county level for efficiency and credibility.

Setting timelines for major events such as the National Delegates Convention (NDC).

Political Engagements and Alliances: The committee discusses and determines the party’s position on national political matters, including forming coalitions or working relationships with other parties, such as the recent cooperation with the UDA administration on a 10-point agenda. It also forms technical teams to implement inter-party agreements.

Public and Member Engagement: The committee is involved in planning activities such as grassroots mobilisation, member recruitment drives, and anniversary celebrations to strengthen party structures and connect with the electorate. It also communicates the party’s official stance on national issues through press briefings.

Oversight and Accountability: It supports the strengthening of parliamentary and county assembly committees and advocates for good governance, accountability, and the proper implementation of devolved functions and resource allocation.

Risk Management (via a sub-committee): It authorises a Risk Management Committee, chaired by the party treasurer, to identify, assess, and mitigate risks, reporting back to the National Executive Committee (NEC).

Dr. Idda Odinga Girls’ Secondary School Stuns in First KCSE Showing with a Mean Score of 7.096

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lom robb
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By James Okoth

In a debut that has left educators, parents and stakeholders in awe, Dr. Idda Odinga Girls’ Secondary School, Asango, has secured a remarkable mean score of 7.096 in the 2025 KCSE. For a school making its first appearance in national exams, this achievement signals the rise of a new academic powerhouse in Ugunja.

According to Principal Nelly M. Otieno, the success is a product of careful planning, teamwork, and student commitment.

“We were only two TSC teachers in 2023. By early 2024, we had five, which greatly boosted the school. Together with the BoM teachers, we started on the form one syllabus from scratch because the foundation was shaky. The girls were extremely cooperative and worked closely with the teachers, who were dedicated beyond measure,” she said.

The results are even more impressive given the context. Starting with just two TSC teachers, the school faced gaps in teaching experience and academic foundations. Yet through strong leadership and collaboration between TSC and BoM teachers, students were guided to perform exceptionally well.

Infrastructure has also played a key role. The Ugunja CDF has already supported the school with 21 classrooms, a dormitory, a dining hall and teachers’ quarters, creating an environment that allows students to focus on learning and growth.

Looking ahead, Principal Otieno has outlined a clear wishlist for the school’s next phase of growth. Her top priorities include more dormitories to accommodate the growing student population, a fully equipped library to enhance learning resources and additional teachers’ quarters to attract and retain dedicated staff. She emphasized that these developments are crucial and hopes the CDF’s office will act quickly to make them a reality.

The 2025 performance also highlights that a new school, with strong leadership, committed staff and supportive infrastructure, can compete with established institutions. Collaboration between teachers and students proved critical in achieving this milestone.

Principal Otieno remains ambitious.

“We have a bigger candidature this year and we are working to achieve a mean of 7.5, which is realistic,” she said. This demonstrates a culture of continuous improvement, where success is a stepping stone to even higher standards.

The girls of Asango were central to the achievement. Their dedication and cooperation with teachers ensured that the school’s first KCSE cohort not only performed well but also set a solid foundation for future success.

Dr. Idda Odinga Girls’ Secondary School has shown that vision, teamwork and strategic investment in human and physical capital can turn a fledgling institution into a beacon of excellence. The 2025 results are a message to the education sector: with the right systems and leadership, new schools can achieve outstanding results.

If 2025 dazzled, 2026 promises to be extraordinary. With a larger student body, more refined systems and the implementation of critical infrastructure projects like additional dormitories, a library and more teachers’ quarters, the school is poised to raise the bar even higher, inspiring other institutions across the county and the country.

Cheers For Ruto Stir Storm In Siaya As Talk Of Rebellion Swells

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lom robb
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By James Okoth

When a group of Siaya County MCAs met President William Ruto, they broke into a spontaneous “tutam” song, a vibrant chorus pledging support and affirming Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027. The moment was cheerful, symbolic and politically charged.

In a county long regarded as the political sanctuary of the late Raila Odinga, the scene was startling. Siaya has for decades stood as the stronghold of the Orange Democratic Movement with Governor James Orengo serving as one of the most loyal custodians of Odinga’s legacy. The MCAs’ open admiration for Ruto instantly ignited speculation that the meeting was more than a courtesy call and perhaps a move to weaken Orengo’s administration from within.

West Gem Ward Representative Susan Okwiry quickly moved to calm the storm. “There is nothing like the impeachment of Governor James Orengo,” she stated firmly. Okwiry, who has expressed interest in the Siaya County Woman Representative seat, maintained that the visit was purely about development and collaboration, not political betrayal.

Her remarks, however, did little to silence the talk. In Siaya’s charged political atmosphere, even symbolism carries the power of disruption. The songs, the smiles and the pledges of loyalty have already triggered waves of interpretation across the county’s political circles.

If the meeting was part of an impeachment scheme, it would represent an audacious challenge to the structures the late Odinga built. Unseating Orengo would be tantamount to striking at the heart of ODM’s ideological command. It would also signal a daring shift within Siaya, where loyalty to the Odinga name has long defined political survival.

Such a move would hand Ruto a significant symbolic victory in the very territory that has historically resisted him. For the MCAs, the decision to align with Ruto would be both risky and strategic. Risky because of possible backlash from ODM loyalists, yet strategic because access to the presidency often translates into access to resources.

If, on the other hand, the meeting had no connection to impeachment, it still holds deep political meaning. County leaders increasingly view engagement with the presidency as a path to unlocking stalled projects and securing development funding. Pragmatism, not rebellion, could have driven the visit.

From that perspective, the gathering may represent a quiet shift in political thinking. The age of strict party loyalty is giving way to an era where development interests override partisan divides. Siaya’s leaders might simply be reading the new political script of survival in modern Kenya.

Yet the optics linger. The tutam song, the cheers for Ruto and Okwiry’s swift denial have combined to mark a new chapter in Siaya’s political story. Whether it was a test of loyalty or a quest for partnership, the visit has unsettled the traditional order.

Governor Orengo remains calm for now. But the meeting has introduced a silent contest of allegiance and ambition. Beneath the surface, the legacy of the late Raila Odinga still looms large, even as a new generation of leaders begins to dance to a different rhythm.

Why Oriwo Secondary School record of highest number of 935 students admitted to university in 2024 is unlikely to be broken as the 8-4-4 system comes to the final stretch

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lom robb
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By Anderson Ojwang

When the chapter of Kenya’s 8-4-4 education system comes to a close with the 2026 class and the final history of the system is written, one school in the sleepy and rocky hills of Rachuonyo West will occupy a permanent space in the annals of Kenya’s academic history.

Oriwo Boys Secondary School (Oriwo BSS) in Kibiri Ward of Karachuonyo Constituency wrote history in the 8-4-4 system as the only school in the history of KCSE to qualify the largest number of students—935—with a C+ and above for admission to university.

This was a milestone that has never been achieved by any school in the country. Oriwo BSS will therefore join the list of other top schools that left permanent records in the KCSE system.

Chairman of the School Board of Managers (BoM), Prof. Kitche Magak, said the record of Oriwo BSS is likely to remain permanent now that the system is coming to an end with the introduction of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.

“As the Chairman of the Board of Managers, I am absolutely gratified that we have left an indelible national record that may never be erased. This is a milestone in the history of the school and the country. It is no mean achievement for an extra-county school that still lacks most basic infrastructure. Most importantly, I am proud to assure you these are genuine results. Against all odds, the Oriwo BSS community, especially the students and teachers, worked extraordinarily hard to achieve that feat,” he said.

Prof. Magak added that the school, under the leadership of the outgoing Senior Principal, Mr. Henry Airo, underwent a major infrastructural facelift and rebranding to make it one of the best institutions in the region.

He said the school has also emerged as one of the top performers in Homa Bay County, Nyanza, and nationally, and that is why it has continued to record steady improvement in national examinations.

In last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), the school managed an improvement from 9.1 in 2024 to 9.2 in 2025.

The new Senior Principal, Mr. Tom Amadi, said the performance was exemplary, with a pass rate of 98.83 per cent. A total of 592 out of 594 candidates who sat the examinations gained direct entry to university.

“We have developed a positive attitude towards learning, and this is one of the reasons that has contributed to exemplary performance. We only had two candidates who did not manage to qualify to join university but secured grade C,” he said.

He said Oriwo Secondary School continues to take a high percentage of students to university, and this has had an immense impact on the local community, where the majority of the students come from.

“I am proud that the Karachuonyo community has steadily gained in acquiring high-quality human resources, and Oriwo Secondary School has been one of the main contributors,” he said.

“We have built nine ultra-modern classrooms, a three-bedroom principal’s house, and constructed modern toilets.

We have a project to construct a hostel with a student capacity of 1,500. We have completed one floor, and already 500 students are using the facility. We require an additional Sh40 million to complete the project,”he said.

Mr. Amadi said that due to the large student population, there was a need to construct an additional library, laboratories, more ICT rooms, and an additional hall.

“The school requires an alternative source of lighting, and we appeal to well-wishers to support this initiative, as the area suffers constant blackouts,” he said.

Karachuonyo has for decades suffered from water insecurity, and the school has only one borehole, which cannot adequately serve the institution during dry seasons.

One of the most urgent needs of the school is the availability of adequate clean and safe water. The school plans to drill a second borehole to meet the high demand caused by the large student population of over 2,200 currently. This population is expected to surpass 3,000 with the admission of the Grade 10 class.

The school also received a donation of over 40 desktop computers and a bus from President William Ruto when he presided over the homecoming thanksgiving prayer of Dr. Raymond Omollo, the Principal Secretary for Internal Security.

Ruto takes two-term drive to Orengo’s doorstep, hosts singing Siaya MCAs as the governor faces payback moment

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lom robb
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By Anderson Ojwang

In a well-calculated and strategic move that could bring the political career of Siaya Governor James Orengo to a screeching halt, President William Ruto on Saturday hosted singing Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from Siaya in Eldoret.

President Ruto took his two-term drive right to the doorstep of his critic, Orengo, in what can be viewed as a political coup. The MCAs, led by Speaker George Okode, broke into a chorus at Eldoret State Lodge, singing “Ruto two term” while dancing and clapping.

Orengo, who is currently out of the country on a private engagement, found himself isolated and politically exposed, with many observers terming the moment as payback time.

In Siaya County, two significant political developments occurred on Friday. Orengo’s deputy and bitter rival, Dr William Oduol, declared his interest in the 2027 gubernatorial race on the ODM ticket and pledged support for the broad-based government arrangement.

At the burial of ODM party leader Dr Oburu Odinga’s maternal aunt in Alego, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, National Assembly Budget Committee Chairman Sam Atandi and Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor took the battle straight to Orengo’s doorstep, promising him “premium tears.”

On Saturday, Wandayi and Atandi led the MCAs to Eldoret to meet President Ruto in what many view as the final onslaught on the governor.

In Siaya County politics, Orengo has fallen out with most of his former allies, including Atandi, Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo, Wandayi and Oduol. He currently enjoys the support of only Rarieda MP Dr Otiende Amollo. Speaker Okode is said to control the MCAs, while Orengo reportedly has only three loyal MCAs who accompany him to his functions.

President Ruto wrote on his X handle:

“Met Siaya County Assembly members, led by Speaker George Owino Okode, at Eldoret State Lodge in Uasin Gishu. Our discussions centered on aligning development programmes with the county’s priorities, while making strategic investments to unlock Siaya’s full potential. We agreed on the need to accelerate ongoing projects and fast-track planned initiatives to ensure development delivers real impact for the people.”

Aduma dismissed a recent meeting held by a section of party members and officials, including Orengo, terming it an attempt to undermine Dr Oburu Odinga.

Atandi declared an all-out onslaught on Orengo and promised what he termed “premium tears” at the end.

“There is a problem. There are people who think that Dr Oburu is not capable of being party leader and that we should remove him. They even had the audacity to call a meeting to discuss ODM issues in the absence of Dr Oburu, the party leader. That is undermining Oburu and we cannot stomach it.

I said in Bondo that Siaya politics will be bare-knuckle with those undermining Oburu. Let them not come crying when it is too late,” Atandi said.

Wandayi said it was wrong for a leader to blow hot and cold on issues and to perpetually sit on the fence.

“The matter of ODM leadership was settled at the NDC, and anybody imagining a vacuum in party leadership is day-dreaming. Nothing can happen unless you are the one leading. Who are you? We cannot allow that, and we shall deal with you squarely,” he said.

Orengo now appears to be staring at the same cold dose he once served his deputy, William Oduol, when the county assembly impeached him before he was saved by the Senate.

Orengo is aligned with a Mama Ida Odinga-led group within the party, which recently met in Nairobi after Ida asked the party leadership to embrace dialogue and avoid killing ODM through internal wrangles.

Last year, Orengo survived an impeachment attempt by the MCAs after the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga intervened and held talks with the dissenting members. Orengo later met the MCAs to resolve the dispute, but he has never regained control of the assembly. Most MCAs owe allegiance to Speaker Okode, while Orengo reportedly commands the loyalty of only three.

Sources claim there could be a renewed plot to impeach Orengo over his constant opposition to the broad-based government arrangement.

Oduol on Friday formally declared his interest in the Siaya gubernatorial race on the ODM ticket.

“Today, the 2013 Siaya Manyien dream has been reactivated and I declare my candidature for the Siaya gubernatorial seat. My candidature was blessed by bishops and priests, and I am confident of winning the elections,” he said in an interview.

Oduol said he would, at the appropriate time, present himself for ODM nominations alongside other interested candidates in the true spirit of democracy within the party.

“I remain a strong supporter of the broad-based government arrangement, which I firmly believe offers the surest path to unity, stability and meaningful transformation for the great people of Siaya,” he said.

Atandi said mainstream ODM was working with President Ruto, noting that only a few leaders were opposed to the broad-based arrangement.

“We are not going to send anyone away, but when party organs ratify engagement with Ruto, those who are uncomfortable will simply walk away on their own,” he said.

After the 2022 elections, a fallout occurred between Orengo and Oduol over alleged corruption and other malpractices in the county administration. The Siaya County Assembly passed a motion to impeach Oduol, but the Senate rescued him and gave him a new lease of political life.

“The office of the deputy governor has been completely disabled. All staff have been directed not to communicate with or take instructions from the DG. I am not invited to cabinet meetings, and my benefits and allowances were withdrawn, including fuel for my official vehicle,” Oduol said.

Oduol added that his attempts to reconcile with Orengo had been rebuffed, forcing him to take a back seat and watch from the sidelines.

The question now is whether Orengo can survive a possible impeachment motion by the county assembly in the absence of Raila Odinga’s influence.

Owalo says Nyanza must prioritise development over politics, names 10 development projects that will spur the region’s economy

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lom robb
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By Anderson Ojwang

Deputy Chief of Staff Mr Eliud Owalo has made a clarion call to the people of Nyanza to prioritise development over politics, saying this is the best way to help the community grow and become economically independent.

He said that through the implementation of development projects, the community stands to benefit from improved road networks, better provision of electricity and water, and a more vibrant local economy.

“I humbly appeal to our people that, going forward, let us prioritise development over unending politics. It is only through development that we will uplift our community,” he said.

Owalo said there are currently 10 ongoing and proposed projects that could radically transform the region’s economy, urging residents to take a keen interest in them and actively lobby for their implementation.

Water infrastructure

The Koru–Soin Dam in Muhoroni Constituency is a key project that the community should support, as it will help control Nyando floods, support irrigation, provide water for domestic use and generate electricity.

The Magwagwa Dam in Kisii is another critical water project that must be completed to improve livelihoods and stimulate the local economy.

Lake Region Ring Road

Owalo said the Lake Region Ring Road, which will connect Busia to Migori, will open up the Nyanza region to increased economic activity with neighbouring countries, including Uganda and Tanzania.

“Our counties will be able to conduct business among themselves and with other countries such as Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi,” he said.

Standard Gauge Railway (SGR)

He said the Standard Gauge Railway, once completed, will be a game changer for the region’s economy, adding that the community should fully support and lobby for its completion.

Kisumu Airport

Owalo said Kisumu Airport should be upgraded to full international status to enable the region to import and export goods directly through the facility.

“It is embarrassing that fish from Lake Victoria must be transported to Thika for processing before export, yet we have an airport in Kisumu. What a shame,” he said.

He added that the only cargo commonly flown into Kisumu currently comprises coffins carrying the remains of the deceased from Nairobi, terming the situation shameful.

Sugar factories

Owalo said the five sugar factories in the region must operate efficiently and effectively so that farmers can reap the benefits of their produce.

He also called for increased investment in the rice sector to further spur the regional economy.

Fish landing sites

He said there is a need to construct modern fish landing sites at all beaches to minimise losses incurred by fishermen and traders.

Minerals

Owalo said mining laws should be reviewed to ensure that local communities benefit from mineral extraction activities taking place in their areas.

He emphasised that the region must embrace developmental politics to stimulate economic growth and improve the social well-being of residents.

Recently, Owalo dismissed the ongoing debate about political kingpins as retrogressive, unwarranted and useless, saying the community needs development rather than political rhetoric.

“Kingpin for what? Why can’t these leaders be kingpins for development? Leadership should be about service delivery to the people,” he said.

He added that obsession with political supremacy does not serve the interests of ordinary citizens.

“You are not worthy of being called a leader if you disregard the needs and challenges facing wananchi. Let us not be preoccupied with kingpin politics because it does not serve the people,” he said.

Owalo said residents are more interested in tangible development that has a direct impact on their lives.

“We want to see roads, water, electricity, revitalisation of the sugar belt, upgrading of Kisumu International Airport and fish processing plants along the lake. That is what the people want,” he said.

He urged voters in Nyanza to change their mindset when electing leaders.

“Let us vote for leaders who are focused on service delivery through tangible development projects rather than mere political rhetoric,” he said.

Owalo noted that since independence, the region has been heavily engaged in politics at the expense of development.

“We have done this since independence and it has not taken us far. We need a paradigm shift. Starting with the 2027 elections, we are heading towards a third liberation. The first was liberation from colonialism, the second was the transition from single-party to multiparty democracy, and the third must be economic liberation,” he said.

The battle for regional political influence has pitted Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo against one another.

In recent months, Wandayi and Mbadi have engaged in a supremacy contest, while similar tensions have emerged between Wanga and Omollo.

What is in the offing for Orengo as President Ruto meets Oburu and Siaya MCAs in Eldoret?

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lom robb
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By Anderson Ojwang

Could Siaya Governor James Orengo be staring at being served with the same cold dose he once served his deputy, William Oduol, when the County Assembly impeached him but he was saved by the Senate?

The politics of Siaya County is likely to take a complete turn today after Members of the County Assembly were led to Eldoret State Lodge to meet President William Ruto.

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Dr Oburu Odinga, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, National Assembly Budget Chairperson Sam Atandi, and Speaker George Okode led the delegation to meet the President.

Siaya Governor James Orengo was conspicuously absent from the trip and is said to have travelled out of the country on a private engagement.

Sources told Western Insight that Orengo travelled outside the country on Wednesday night, while today Oburu led the delegation to the State Lodge in Eldoret.

Orengo and the Oburu-led team from Siaya, including Atandi and Wandayi, have sharply differed over the broad-based government and party leadership.

Orengo leans towards the Mama Ida Odinga-led group in the party, which recently met in Nairobi after Ida asked the party leadership to embrace dialogue and avoid killing the party.

Last year, Orengo survived impeachment by the MCAs after the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga intervened and held a meeting with the dissenting MCAs.

Orengo later met with the MCAs to resolve the dispute but has never regained control of the Assembly. A majority of the MCAs owe allegiance to Speaker Okode, while Orengo reportedly has only three MCAs who are loyal to him and accompany him to his functions.

Sources have claimed there is a possible plot to impeach Orengo over his constant opposition to the broad-based government arrangement.

Wandayi, who spoke at a funeral in Alego, took a swipe at a leader who blows hot and cold on issues.

Wandayi said it was wrong for a leader to blow hot and cold on issues and perpetually sit on the fence.

“The matter of ODM leadership was settled at the NDC, and anybody imagining a vacuum in the party leadership is daydreaming. It cannot be that unless you are the one leading, nothing can happen. Who are you? We cannot allow you, and we shall deal with you squarely,” he said.

Interestingly, Orengo’s deputy, Dr William Oduol, on Friday declared his interest in the Siaya gubernatorial race on an ODM ticket.

When contacted on whether he travelled to Eldoret with the MCAs and if he was aware of a plot to impeach Orengo, Oduol wrote: “I am in funerals today.”

“Today, the 2013 Siaya Manyien has been reactivated, and I declare my candidature for the Siaya gubernatorial seat. My candidature was blessed by the bishops and the priests, and I am confident of winning the elections,” he said in an interview.

Oduol said that at the appropriate time, he will present himself for ODM nomination alongside other interested candidates, in the true spirit of democracy within the party.

“I remain a strong supporter of the Broad-Based Government arrangement, which I firmly believe offers the surest path to unity, stability, and meaningful transformation for the great people of Siaya,” he said.

Atandi said the mainstream ODM was working with President Ruto and that there are a few leaders who are not interested in the broad-based arrangement.

“We are not going to send you away, but when party organs make a ratification in engagement with Ruto, you will just walk away on your own,” Atandi said.

After the election, a fallout occurred between Orengo and Oduol over alleged corruption in the administration and other malpractices.

The Siaya County Assembly passed a motion to impeach Oduol, but the Senate rescued him from the jaws of his enemies and gave him a new lease of life.

“The office of the Deputy Governor has completely been disabled. All staff have been directed not to communicate or take instructions from the DG. The DG is not invited to Cabinet meetings, and his benefits and allowances have been withdrawn, including fuelling his official county car, which he now does on his own,” Oduol said.

Oduol said his attempts to reconcile with Orengo have been rebuffed, forcing him to take a back seat and watch from the sidelines.

“I have made many attempts to reach out to Orengo without any luck. I have decided to take a back seat, but I am happy that I have been vindicated. All the MPs from Siaya have raised the same issues that I raised in 2022 over lack of leadership, graft, lethargy, and a hands-off management style, among many others,” he said.

TRAGEDY AT TRIUMPH: ST JOSEPH’S RAPOGI LOSES KCSE CANDIDATE AMID RECORD-BREAKING 2025 RESULTS

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lom robb
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By Erick Otieno

St Joseph’s School Rapogi has been thrown into mourning after losing one of its 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates, despite posting one of its best performances in the school’s history.

Speaking to the media yesterday at the school compound, Senior Principal Mr Erastus Nyagwa confirmed the tragic death of Sheltone Nyang’or, a candidate who scored a mean grade of C+. The principal said the school received heartbreaking news that the student lost his life while attempting to retrieve a mobile phone that had accidentally fallen into a pit latrine. In the process, the candidate entered the latrine and met his untimely death.

“This is a very painful loss to the school community. We mourn a young life full of promise, even as we celebrate academic success,” said Mr Nyagwa.

The tragedy came at a time when the school registered a sterling performance in the 2025 KCSE examinations, significantly improving on last year’s results. A total of 14 candidates scored grade A (plain), 77 attained A minus, 159 scored B plus, 170 got B (plain), 123 scored B minus, 46 obtained C plus, 17 scored C (plain) while three candidates posted C minus. This translated to 609 candidates qualifying for direct university entry, representing 95.4619 per cent, up from 588 candidates (91.4966 per cent) in 2024.

In the 2025 results, the top student, Innocent Mike, emerged as the best performer with an A (plain) of 84 points. Mr Nyagwa attributed the improved performance to teamwork and discipline.

“The upward trend is a result of combined effort and cooperation from teachers, parents and the discipline shown by our students,” he said.
The principal further noted that the school improved its mean grade to 9.1264 in 2025 from 8.5894 in 2024. “We are happy with the growth and encouraged by the progress,” he added.

Mr Edwine Odhiambo, the teacher in charge of the 2025 class, also credited the strong performance to teamwork. “The good results came from close collaboration with parents, hardworking teachers and committed students,” he said.

Deputy Principal in charge of academics, Mr Adongo Alphons, echoed the sentiments, saying the school’s philosophy of putting God first had played a key role. “Students, teachers and all stakeholders played their part. That is why we achieved these results,” he said. Mr Alphons added that the school is now targeting a mean grade of 10 with the current candidates and is already working towards that goal.

Elsewhere in Migori County, several schools also posted impressive results. Kanga School in Rongo recorded a mean grade of 9.43434, Kadika Girls in Suna East posted 8.78, Sori Boys in Nyatike attained 8.3214, while Nyangere Mixed and Sota Secondary SDA, both in Nyatike, recorded mean grades of 8.039 and 8.0097 respectively.

As celebrations over academic excellence continue, the St Joseph’s Rapogi community remains united in grief, mourning the loss of a promising candidate whose life was cut short at the moment of achievement.

Was Sifuna Invited to Raila Odinga’s Memorial Birthday in Karen?

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lom robb
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By Billy Mijungu

The images from Raila Odinga’s memorial birthday gathering in Karen sparked more questions than answers. One detail stood out immediately. Edwin Sifuna was the only senior figure present without an Arsenal jersey. While Sifuna is a confessed Chelsea supporter everyone else at Kerarapon appeared deliberately coordinated in Arsenal colours symbolically united in Baba’s memory. In politics symbolism is never accidental.

The Kerarapon gathering reflected a BBG blend a political formation Sifuna has historically been uncomfortable with and openly critical of in both tone and posture. Attendance in such spaces is never neutral. Body language and interaction all communicate messages sometimes louder than speeches.

There is reason to believe Sifuna may not have been part of the original guest list. His appearance suggested someone who arrived without prior briefing on the dressing code reinforcing the impression of a late call. It is plausible that Mama Ida intervened and reached out to him as part of ongoing efforts to calm internal tensions within ODM and prevent further escalation of factional disputes.

The hug between Sifuna and Mama Ida changed everything. That single moment made Sifuna the star of the day. It was not just a gesture of warmth but a powerful political signal. In full public view it conferred legitimacy reassurance and acceptance. In politics such moments are carefully read and rarely forgotten. The hug reframed Sifuna not as an outsider but as a central figure whose presence mattered.

This moment came against the backdrop of emerging opinion polls that placed Sifuna high as a community leader with growing influence particularly among younger and urban voters. That reality has altered internal calculations. Political capital once visible in speeches is now measured in public trust and relatability and on that scale Sifuna is gaining ground rapidly.

What is at stake goes beyond personalities. ODM is under pressure from both internal competition and external intrusion. There is an active attempt to reorganize the party from the top in a manner that resembles a hostile takeover yet the process has proven far more complex than anticipated. As elite level contests continue grassroots leaders are quietly reassessing loyalties and positioning themselves for survival.

The greatest risk to ODM is not open confrontation but silent drift driven by exclusion and uncertainty. Parties weaken when emerging voices feel sidelined. This moment calls for deliberate strengthening of ODM through inclusion dialogue and recognition of evolving leadership dynamics. Unity not optics will determine the party’s future.

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