Siaya Governor James Orengo has accused President William Ruto’s administration of weaponizing the criminal justice system to intimidate government critics, claiming the latest legal actions against supporters of the Linda Wananchi movement are politically motivated.
In a statement shared after appearing in court, Orengo alleged that the government was using the courts to suppress dissent through what he described as underhanded legal tactics.
“The Ruto regime’s weaponization of the criminal justice system is a desperate attempt to silence the voice of the people. Sneaking warrant of arrest orders into court without notice won’t break our resolve; this cowardice will not intimidate us,” Orengo said.
The governor said he represented eight supporters of the Linda Wananchi movement who are facing legal action, arguing that the cases are part of a broader campaign to silence opposition voices.
According to Orengo, the defence team challenged the manner in which the warrants of arrest were obtained and sought to protect the rights of the accused as the court considers its ruling for two of the suspects who appeared before the court on Friday.
“Today, I stood in court to defend the eight Linda Wananchi supporters targeted by this regime. We challenged their underhanded tactics and fought for justice while awaiting the ruling for the two who appeared on Friday,” he said.
Orengo further linked the legal battles to the country’s political future, expressing confidence that the current administration will leave office after the 2027 General Election.
“This reign of persecution ends on August 10, 2027,” he stated.
