Siaya Governor James Orengo (left) and his Deputy William Oduol.
Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol has revealed that no official communication has been provided regarding the whereabouts of his boss Governor James Orengo.
His remarks come amid growing speculation surrounding the governor’s unexplained absence, a situation further complicated by Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode, who has vehemently denied claims that Governor Orengo has resigned.
Governor Orengo’s last public appearance was in June after which he has remained conspicuously absent. Mr Oduol, who has had a frequently strained relationship with the governor, stated that he has not received any formal communication from either the family or the governor's office regarding Orengo's whereabouts.
This lack of clarity, he said, has left Siaya residents in confusion and growing anxiety.
"I do not know where the Governor is as there has been no official statement from his family or office. I do not wish to speculate but I have been told by those close to him that he is receiving treatment in India. I cannot comment on his health status," Mr Oduol said.
He expressed deep disappointment that the governor’s office had failed to issue an official statement, leaving room for wild conjecture and unease among the people of Siaya.
Siaya Governor James Orengo.
While acknowledging that health matters are private, Mr Oduol argued that a formal update was both necessary and responsible, in the interest of transparency and accountability to the electorate.
Speaking exclusively to Nation by phone, the deputy governor voiced concern that the governor's absence is not just a private matter but a pressing governance issue. He claimed the leadership vacuum had enabled corrupt cartels to take advantage of the situation.
"When one is absent for such an extended period—while health issues are undeniably private—we must remember our accountability to the people. The governor's absence has created an environment of confusion, enabling cartels to act with impunity," he said.
Mr Oduol added that he wished the governor had formally delegated his duties to him during this period allowing for smoother county operations.
"We all know that my relationship with the governor has been strained, and thus he did not delegate responsibilities to me. Had this been done, I would have managed the affairs of the county and assumed a supervisory role during his absence," he explained.
Loyalty pledge
He cited Article 179 of the Constitution of Kenya, which establishes the County Executive Committee and outlines the roles of the governor and deputy governor. Mr Oduol reaffirmed his commitment to his constitutional role and pledged loyalty to the office and its mandate.
"My allegiance to His Excellency remains unwavering. I stand ready, as always, to execute his instructions in the best interest of the people of Siaya. I do so with the understanding that my role is complementary to that of the Governor, and that our shared mission is to deliver accountable and transformative governance," he said.
Though he acknowledged past disagreements with Mr Orengo, MrOduol said that such differences do not diminish his respect for the office or his commitment to public service. In a statement released Tuesday, Mr Oduol extended an olive branch to the governor, pledging continued loyalty and urging calm amid growing public concern.
"Now, more than ever, we must unite to restore harmony within the Executive. Our energies must be directed towards fulfilling the needs and aspirations of the people we are privileged to serve. In the spirit of Chapter Six of the Constitution, which enshrines leadership and integrity, I extend a hand of reconciliation to His Excellency. I remain open to dialogue, guided by mutual respect and the institutions we both serve. Leadership is not driven by personal ambition or rivalry; it is about selfless service to the people," he said.
The prolonged silence from the county leadership has sparked frustration among Siaya residents, who are unsure who is currently steering the devolved unit.
This uncertainty prompted Julius Oluoch, a local resident, to file a petition with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Senate, and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party, seeking intervention over what he describes as a "leadership vacuum."
There has also been speculation over Speaker George Okode’s role, with some suggesting he may be assuming gubernatorial functions. Mr Okode has been seen hosting dignitaries—a role typically reserved for the governor, deputy governor, or County Executive Committee members.
However, Mr Oduol criticised such speculation warning against a dangerous overreach of executive power.
"The Speaker, as head of the legislative arm of the county government, must respect the separation of powers. He must not attempt to assume executive responsibilities. His role is confined to legislation, budget approval, and executive oversight," he said.
Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode takes the oath of office on September, 20, 2017.
He reminded all county officials and stakeholders that assuming authority outside the constitutional framework is unlawful.
In response, Speaker Okode while addressing journalists in Kisumu denied claims that he had received any resignation notice from Governor Orengo. He also dismissed suggestions that he was acting as governor.
"The truth is, when the governor is away, attending a single meeting convened by the county government does not make one the governor. How many times have I, alongside the governor, attended such meetings on behalf of the county government?" he posed.
Mr Okode reiterated that Governor Orengo remains the legitimate head of Siaya County and is continuing to perform his mandate.
"Governor Orengo is still in office and continues to direct his cabinet and administration as required by law," he said.
