Foreign Affairs minister Abubaker Jeje Odongo has not ruled out a return to active politics, saying his people in Orungo County demand it.
Although General Odongo chose not to participate in the recently concluded party primaries, he is currently conducting what he calls a “thank-you and performance audit tour” across the constituency, aimed at evaluating the progress made on the pledges from his 2021 campaign.
“I am visiting all the sub-counties in Orungo to assess the extent to which the promises I made have been fulfilled,” Odongo said during a community engagement.
“For instance, we extended electricity to all seven sub-counties, installed solar power in schools without lighting—enabling computer studies—and improved access roads and water systems.”
The retired general, who previously served two terms as Member of Parliament for Orungo, said his decision to sit out the primaries was deliberate and strategic.
“I wanted to keep the promise I made to focus on service delivery first. But as you can see, I am overwhelmed by the number of people—especially the youth—who are walking with me across the constituency, urging me to return. I haven’t made up my mind yet, but I am listening,” he said.
Former army commander Odongo emphasized that his final decision would be guided by broad-based community consensus, adding that he would make an announcement by September, ahead of the 2026 general election nominations.
“I want to be absolutely sure that the people of Orungo truly want me back. If that is the collective will of the community, I will not turn it down,” he added.
He also raised concerns about the integrity of the NRM primaries, pointing to alleged irregularities and external influence.
“There are worrying signs—intimidation, use of money, and actors not traditionally part of our political culture. We must question whether these trends align with the ideals we embraced when we joined the NRA,” he cautioned.
Despite his reservations and uncertain candidacy, Odongo congratulated the NRM flag bearer, Teddy Anyuk Osire, and pledged his full-hearted support as the political process unfolds.
Still, he maintained that soul-searching is needed to preserve the integrity of leadership and governance, both in Orungo and across the country.
“This is not about me alone. It’s about finding solutions to the challenges of our community. If it turns out I am part of that solution, then so be it,” he concluded.
As Gen. Odongo continues his constituency tour, he is increasingly met with warm receptions and growing calls from elders, youth, and opinion leaders—painting a picture of a constituency that may not yet be done with one of its most seasoned political sons.