Siaya Governor James Orengo has shared a rare and deeply personal glimpse into his grief following the death of the veteran opposition leader, Raila Odinga.
During a recent appearance on the Obinna Show Live, the governor revealed that he still keeps Odinga’s contact details saved in his phonebook.
The late Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader passed away in October 2025. The news broke while Orengo was in Siaya, preparing for an international trade conference. Despite the months that have passed, the governor says those digits are not going anywhere.
‘I Will Never Delete It’
Orengo told host Oga Obinna that he possesses several numbers for the man popularly known as "Baba." He explained that his refusal to hit the delete button stems from a lifelong bond that transcends mere politics.
"I will never delete it. Sometimes you want to call, and then you’re like, ah... And it was not just one number it was several... I still have all of them,” he affirmed.
The governor admitted that the habit of reaching for his phone to consult his long-time ally remains a reflex. For Orengo, the presence of the number serves as a digital tether to a partnership that spanned over four decades.
Decades of Shared Sacrifice
The relationship between the two men was forged during the harshest years of Kenya’s struggle for multi-party democracy. Orengo, who was first elected to Parliament at the age of 27, has been a central figure in the country’s reform movement.
His loyalty to the Odinga family began during his days as a student leader when he worked closely with Raila’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
The Shock of October 2025
The governor recalled the final moments leading up to the tragedy. He had spoken to Raila via a WhatsApp call on 14 October, just one day before his death. At the time, Odinga was in India and expressed doubts about whether he could return in time to close the Siaya trade conference.
The following morning, Orengo received a call from Raila's sister, Ruth Odinga, confirming the news. The announcement led to the immediate cancellation of the conference as crowds took to the streets in mourning.
A Connection Beyond the Grave
Orengo noted that Raila was a frequent visitor to his home, and their families shared a "great cohesion" that involved music, football, and shared values. While the political landscape continues to shift, the governor maintains that Raila’s drive is very difficult to replicate.
By keeping the phone numbers active in his contacts, Orengo is holding onto a piece of a 40-year history that defined his life and the nation's trajectory.
