They are probably among the most successful politicians in the history of Luo Nyanza politics.
They command a huge following and their political skills are not in doubt. However, NASA leader Raila Odinga and Siaya Senator James Orengo's checkered political careers have been punctuated by incidences of betrayal, their close relationship not withstanding.
As political protégés of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, both Orengo and Raila were elected to Parliament on a Ford Kenya ticket in 1992. However, their relationship collapsed after the death of the former Vice President in 1994.
The Ugenya MP ganged up with Michael Kijana Wamalwa in the new Ford Kenya leadership. Feeling isolated, Raila dumped the party in 1995 to form his National Development Party ( NDP).
Ahead of the 1997 election, NDP had gained momentum in Nyanza and it was the party to beat. However, while vying on his SDP Party, Orengo who rivaled Raila as the region's political supremo survived the wave and defended his seat.
Third time unlucky, Orengo vied as President in 2002 on his SDP Party. Feeling betrayed, NARC coalition, of which Raila was a key member, launched a charm offensive against the Ugenya man. He was toppled from his MP seat by little-known Stephen Ondieki.
With his political future hanging on balance, Orengo gravitated to Raila's political axis and in 2007,he recaptured his seat. And since then, Orengo has become a brand in politics and is virtually unbeatable. The three betrayals have shaped his political fortunes for good.
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