Orengo attends Phoebe Asiyo's funeral after a prolonged absence from public view.
Siaya Governor James Orengo Returns After Month-Long Absence Amidst Political Tensions and Controversy
Siaya County Governor James Orengo returned to Kenya on Wednesday after a month-long absence, sparking relief and curiosity among residents. His prolonged absence had fueled concerns about a leadership vacuum and governance accountability in the county.
Orengo's absence was due to medical reasons and an official visit to the United States. However, his return was not without controversy, as rumors of resignation circulated, fueled by a fake letter that surfaced online. The ODM party dismissed any claims of Orengo stepping down.
The Governor's return comes amidst a reported feud with his Deputy Governor, Dr. William Oduol. Oduol has been blocked from functioning fully in his role, causing paralysis within the county’s executive functions. This situation has intensified uncertainty about who was managing the county affairs effectively.
At a funeral ceremony in early August, Orengo publicly addressed the rumors about his health and well-being, clarifying his situation and dispelling rumors of resignation or incapacity. He expressed commitment to a smooth leadership transition and confidence in the county's continued progress despite his absence.
The funeral ceremony was for Phoebe Muga Asiyo, a trailblazing politician and human rights defender who died on July 25 at the age of 93 in North Carolina. Asiyo was celebrated for her fearless advocacy for women's rights and democracy. The burial was attended by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and other leaders who paid tribute to Asiyo. Orengo offered condolences to Asiyo's family but did not address his absence.
This situation underscores political tensions within Siaya’s leadership and highlights the challenges faced in leadership continuity when key figures are absent for health or political reasons. The ongoing feud between Orengo and Oduol continues to create uncertainty in the county's leadership. As the county moves forward, residents eagerly await a resolution to this ongoing drama and a return to normalcy in governance.
[1] The Standard, "Siaya Governor James Orengo returns after a month-long absence," www.standardmedia.co.ke, August 5, 2025.
[2] The Nation, "ODM dismisses claims of Siaya Governor James Orengo resigning," www.nation.co.ke, July 30, 2025.
[3] The Star, "Siaya County: Who's running the show amid Governor's absence?" www.the-star.co.ke, July 31, 2025.
[4] Capital FM, "Siaya Governor James Orengo out of the country for weeks," www.capitalfm.co.ke, July 24, 2025.
[5] The Daily Nation, "Siaya Governor James Orengo addresses rumors about his health and well-being," www.nation.co.ke, August 3, 2025.
[1] The ongoing political tensions in Siaya County, coupled with rumors of resignation, have raised questions about the county's leadership, intertwining the realms of politics and general news.
[2] Despite the return of Governor James Orengo from his medical leave and US visit, business operations within the county remain uncertain due to ongoing conflicts and feuds, mirroring the complexities of war-and-conflicts situations.
