In Siaya County, Deputy Governor William Oduol has extended an olive branch to Governor James Orengo, proposing a structured dialogue to address the escalating leadership crisis that has gripped the region. On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Oduol publicly called for talks to resolve the longstanding rift between the two leaders, which has fueled public unrest and stalled critical county operations.
The leadership vacuum stems from Orengo’s prolonged absence from public view since Monday, June 23, 2025, when he last appeared before the Senate’s Public Accounts Committee.
His absence, reportedly due to a private trip abroad, has sparked petitions from residents demanding clarity on his whereabouts. Oduol, sidelined from executive duties for nearly two years, has been unable to act in Orengo’s stead, exacerbating governance challenges.
Oduol emphasized the need for unity, stating, “Based on the pressure from the public, it beholds us as leaders to come together and address our differences.”
He proposed a consultative engagement involving devolution stakeholders to restore public confidence and tackle issues like the delayed 2025/2026 budget approval.
Despite their strained relationship, Oduol ruled out resignation, declaring, “Resigning is for the cowards. Remember, I am elected, not selected.”
Allegations of mismanagement have compounded tensions. Oduol criticised the county’s operations under Orengo, citing “numerous plundering schemes of public resources.”
He also accused County Assembly Speaker George Okode of overstepping constitutional boundaries by assuming executive roles.
Okode dismissed these claims and refuted a viral letter alleging Orengo’s resignation as “a forgery by political saboteurs.” He assured residents that Orengo remains in office, managing county affairs remotely.
Residents and civil society groups, including Siaya Bunge la Wananchi, have voiced growing frustration. Petitions to institutions like the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) highlight concerns over governance paralysis and lack of transparency in the county’s budget process.
Political analyst Samuel Owida noted, “Leaders are answerable to the public. Siaya residents have a right to know their leaders’ whereabouts.”
The ongoing discord threatens Siaya’s devolution framework, with fears of stalled development projects, including a KSh 1 billion investment in the Usenge Pier and KSh 1.6 billion for rural electrification.
Oduol’s call for dialogue offers a potential path to stability, but its success hinges on Orengo’s response upon his return. For now, Siaya remains on edge, awaiting a resolution to a crisis that tests the resilience of its leadership.
