By Team
In a rare show of courage, Kisumu County Assembly Clerk, Mr Owen Ojuok, challenged Siaya Governor James Orengo to consider supporting and extending a helping hand to the youths who stood by him during his political struggles.
Owen, who is also an advocate, took the bull by the horns to confront Orengo over the matter, which is a common topic in most parts of the Nyanza region but is often discussed behind the Governor’s back.
Owen, who spoke at a funeral in Siaya in the presence of Orengo, told him that the majority of the youths who supported his political ideology and were incarcerated because of him have been left to wallow in poverty despite their struggle for change.
**“Governor Jim, you remember very well how Audi Ogada and others supported you in Thika during the Ford-K elections. You remember how these youths fought and risked their lives for you.
You can see Audi Ogada and others seated at the far-right end. Governor, they claim you forgot about them when you were a minister and now as the Governor of Siaya.
Kindly, find a place in your heart and reconnect with this team. They were very valuable in your struggle,”** he said.
Owen reminded Orengo how several youths were arrested and detained during the Mageuzi movement, which he spearheaded, and that the majority of them have never been employed despite the change in political fortunes.
Audi was one of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s security team and chose to stand with Orengo against Raila Odinga during the fight over the leadership of Ford-K.
Audi has remained in Ford-K even after Raila and Orengo defected to other parties and eventually converged at the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Audi said he is a change and human rights crusader and is not bitter with Orengo for failing to recognise his contribution to his political struggle.
“I have not had an opportunity to speak with Orengo about the past. I gave myself to the struggle, and I remain committed to championing human rights. It is incumbent upon him to choose what is best for him. We did our part, and the rest we leave to God,” he said.
Orengo acknowledged the contributions of his team and shared the experiences they endured during the struggle.
“The youths played an important role in the struggle. Whenever they were arrested, I would offer free legal services. It was a selfless battle, and they played a significant role in the fight,” he said.
