Governorship Orengo returns to home soil after foreign sojourn
Governor Orengo Returns to Siaya After Medical Leave, Amidst Allegations of Neglected Duties
Siaya Governor James Orengo has returned to Kenya after a month-long medical leave in the United States, putting an end to rumors about his health and resignation. His return was confirmed by Speaker of the County Assembly George Okode.
During his absence, Orengo's prolonged absence caused significant anxiety and delays in county affairs, including the stalled approval of the 2025/2026 budget. This led to a resident, Julius Oluoch, petitioning top government institutions, including the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Senate, and the ODM Party, to investigate Orengo and his deputy for allegedly neglecting their constitutional roles.
In Orengo's absence, Speaker Okode represented the governor at key functions in Siaya. Questions arose over the whereabouts of Orengo's deputy, William Oduol, who has been sidelined by the administration. It is reported that Oduol fell out with the governor, and a section of MCAs does not recognize him because they impeached him last year, although the impeachment was nullified by the Senate.
Orengo resurfaced publicly on August 8, 2025, at the funeral of former Karachuonyo MP Phoebe Asiyo in Homa Bay, where he declared he was "well and going nowhere," dismissing all rumors of ill health or resignation. His return was marked by a firm statement asserting his health and continued leadership role.
The petition, made public last week, stated that Orengo's absence has led to stalled key operations in the county. The governor's return to the country on Tuesday is expected to bring some clarity and resolution to the ongoing issues in Siaya County.
Health concerns and speculations about the political future of Siaya Governor James Orengo were reignited upon his return from a medical leave, as General News outlets reported on his re-entry to Kenya. Despite his return, the renewed scrutiny surrounds his prolonged absence, during which allegations of neglected duties were brought forth by residents such as Julius Oluoch, calling for investigations in the various political institutions like the IEBC, EACC, Senate, and ODM party.
