Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has sent a heartfelt birthday message to Siaya Governor James Orengo, praising his role in Kenya’s democratic struggle while acknowledging his continued influence in contemporary political debates.
In the message shared on social media, Sifuna described it as an honour to know and learn from the veteran politician.
He said their partnership in the fight for a better Kenya reflects a historical continuity of reform ideals, adding prayers for Orengo’s long life and expressing confidence that history would judge him kindly.
"Omwami James Orengo, Im honored to even know you, privileged that i get to learn at your feet, an inexplicable twist of history that I get to call you a comrade in a fight for a better Kenya, just like you did with my Uncle Lawrence. Mimi yangu ni kukuombea maisha marefu. Happy Birthday Sir! History will be kind," Sifuna posted.
Orengo, one of the longest-serving figures within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has recently aligned with a faction associated with Sifuna that has openly challenged sections of the party leadership.
The Siaya governor has attended several “Linda Mwananchi” rallies linked to the group, including the gathering in Kitengela last weekend and another held in Kakamega on Saturday.
Sifuna’s tribute also referenced his uncle, Lawrence, whom he described as part of an earlier generation of reform advocates.
Lawrence was among the outspoken Members of Parliament of the 1990s who strongly criticised government excesses and pushed for political reforms during Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy.
Orengo remains a prominent reform-era figure, having been detained during the struggle for political pluralism before serving in Parliament and later in Cabinet.
His continued engagement in public discourse and reform-oriented mobilization underscores his enduring influence in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.