Ugenya Member of Parliament David Ochieng has criticized Siaya Governor James Orengo for failing to attend development functions presided over by President William Ruto over the weekend.

The lawmaker called on the Governor to abandon “political activism” and instead focus on collaborating with the national government for the benefit of Siaya residents.

“When President Ruto visits other counties, we often see governors welcoming him and discussing development matters together. Recently, he was in Makueni where he met Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, who is a member of the opposition. In Siaya, the Governor was nowhere to be seen,” Mr Ochieng stated.

The MP’s remarks follow Governor Orengo’s absence from the high-profile launch of the Siaya Community Digital Hub in Bondo and a thanksgiving service for Medical Services PS Ouma Oluga.

Instead of attending the presidential events, Orengo was reportedly participating in a “Linda Mwananchi” rally in Makueni County.

“The Governor must understand that the people who elected him want serious results on the ground. They want seeds to plant and water to drink, not activism,” Ochieng said.

“Before you go to Makueni to ‘Linda Mwananchi’ (Protect the Citizen), you must ‘Linda Siaya’ first.”

Mr Ochieng, who lauded the President for his frequent visits to the region, noted that the Head of State’s commitment to returning to Siaya was commendable and should be met with local cooperation.

In the Governor’s absence, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga and other local leaders stepped in to host the President during the commissioning of various multi-billion shilling projects across the county.