Governor Orengo Dismisses Claims He Called for Protests Amid Criticism

"Some people think that when I said we can go to protests, it meant I could personally take to the streets, and even Babu Owino said something similar," Orengo said.

"I did not mean we would just go. I meant that if issues are not being addressed properly, the streets are open, and we can protest in an organised way," he added.

Orengo's clarification comes hardly five days after he threatened to lead Kenyans into nationwide demonstrations against President William Ruto's administration.

Speaking during ODM's 20th Anniversary in Mombasa County on Friday, November 14, the governor said that Kenyans were prepared to go back to the streets if necessary.

"If ODM is strong and stands on the basis that Raila wanted a free country, we must fight everywhere. If you are afraid, do not sell us fear. We are prepared to go back to the streets. I, as James Orengo, am prepared to go back to the streets," Orengo said.

His sentiments were echoed by Embakasi Member of Parliament Babu Owino, who threatened to rally for nationwide protests against the rise in the cost of living.

Mbadi yesterday noted thatcalls for protests, particularly by ODM members, risked dragging the party behindand rekindlingold political wounds sustained previously during the fight for justice.