Speaking on Saturday during a public engagement in Siaya County, Orengo said the accusations were not only unfounded but also a dangerous attempt to trivialize genuine concerns raised by citizens participating in the movement.
He argued that such claims reflect a reluctance by some leaders to confront the realities on the ground and instead resort to blaming victims of state response.
The controversy stems from recent claims circulating in political circles suggesting that some incidents of teargas deployment during Linda Mwananchi rallies were self-inflicted or staged.
The allegations have sparked heated debate, with supporters of the movement dismissing them as propaganda aimed at delegitimizing their activities.
Governor Orengo, a veteran opposition figure and long-time advocate of constitutional democracy, said it was irresponsible for anyone to suggest that citizens would expose themselves to harm for political mileage.
He emphasized that the focus should instead be on addressing the underlying grievances that have led to public demonstrations in the first place.
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“The idea that people would stage violence against themselves is not only insulting but also a reflection of backward and primitive thinking,” Orengo said, adding that Kenya’s democratic space must allow citizens to express dissent without intimidation or misinformation campaigns.
The Linda Mwananchi movement has recently gained traction across several regions, drawing participants who cite economic hardship, governance concerns, and public accountability as their main motivations for joining the rallies.
However, the movement has also faced criticism from sections of the political establishment, with some leaders questioning its methods and intent.
Orengo urged security agencies and political actors to exercise restraint when handling public gatherings, warning that excessive force or unfounded accusations could further inflame tensions.
He called for dialogue and respect for constitutional rights, stressing that peaceful assembly is a cornerstone of democracy.
He further cautioned against the spread of misinformation on social media and in political speeches, noting that unverified claims risk deepening divisions among citizens.
According to him, Kenya must prioritize truth, accountability and peaceful political engagement over speculation and blame games.
The governor reiterated that leaders have a responsibility to protect democratic freedoms rather than erode public trust through inflammatory rhetoric.
He called on all sides of the political divide to focus on solutions to economic and governance challenges rather than engaging in political distractions.
As debate continues, the incident has highlighted growing political tensions surrounding civic movements and their role in shaping public discourse.
Analysts note that such disputes could intensify as political temperatures rise ahead of future electoral cycles, making dialogue and transparency even more critical.
