A growing unease has gripped Siaya County following Governor James Orengo's unexplained absence for nearly a month. Concerned residents are now wondering who is running the county, even as they demand transparency from their leaders.
Governor Orengo was last seen in public on June 23, 2025, when he appeared before the Senate public accounts committee.
His prolonged absence has also brought to focus the longstanding tensions between him and his deputy, Dr William Oduol. Their working relationship, strained for nearly two years, appears to have completely broken down, leaving the Executive arm of the county government in a state of paralysis.
As the constitutionally mandated deputy, Dr Oduol is expected to steer executive functions in the absence of the governor. However, there is growing concern that this duty is being obstructed.
“Who is in charge of Siaya County in the governor’s absence? What is really happening? We elected Governor Orengo to lead and serve the people of Siaya. This situation is deeply troubling. If things fall apart, who will be held accountable?” asked Ben Aringo, a resident of Central Alego.
Dr Oduol: Rendered irrelevant?
In a previous media address, Dr Oduol confirmed that he was repeatedly blocked from accessing his office and participating in county affairs.
“Whatever happened between the governor and me is behind us. The Senate dismissed the impeachment motion against me, and the only logical step would be to resume work and serve the electorate. Unfortunately, that has not happened. I have made several attempts to contact the governor to no avail,” said Dr Oduol.
Embattled Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol during an interview at Katanazi Hotel in Kilimani, Nairobi on June 19, 2023.
Photo credit: Evans Habil I Nation Media Group
He also revealed that his official vehicle is no longer fuelled or serviced by the county government, forcing him to bear the costs personally.
“My office has essentially been rendered irrelevant in the current administration,” he lamented.
A senior county official, speaking on condition of anonymity since he is not permitted to give media statements, confirmed that Dr Oduol had not been invited to any cabinet meetings since the fallout with Governor Orengo.
“His office exists in name only. He neither receives communication from the Governor nor participates in any cabinet discussions,” the official disclosed.
The same official added that, in Governor Orengo’s absence, coordination of executive activities has largely been left to County Executive Committee Members (CECMs).
Speaker George Okode, responding to the allegations during a public forum, dismissed claims that he is managing the executive functions of the county.
“The Governor has been represented at various functions by different officials, be it the Chair of the County Public Service Board or Members of the County Assembly. Representation can be delegated.
“Although the Governor may be physically absent, he remains in constant virtual communication with the CECMs and other leaders. Technology allows him to govern remotely,” he said.
When reached for comment, County Secretary Joseph Ogutu said the county is running smoothly as they hold regular online meetings with him.
"There is no vacuum; all county functions are operating smoothly, as they ought to. The governor has continued to offer guidance even during his absence, and we hold regular virtual meetings with him. He also retains the discretion to assign responsibilities to anyone, including individuals from the County Assembly, should the need arise," he stated.
Despite these reassurances, concerns continue to mount, with residents urging the leadership to resolve internal conflicts and ensure continuity of service delivery. The situation underscores a deeper governance issue, one that risks undermining public trust in Siaya’s devolved system.
