ODM Wants Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol to Resign

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party wants Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol to step down and let Governor James Orengo appoint a new deputy.

ODM Secretary for Political Affairs Opiyo Wandayi noted that they asked Oduol to resign because of their continued discordance with Orengo.

The two Siaya County leaders have in the past few weeks had issues that led to a violent disruption of a recent funeral they attended.

Mourners were forced to run from the burial ceremony of the late Siaya County Public Service Board chair, Elijah Achoch, after police lobbed teargas when youth allied to Orengo interrupted Oduol while addressing the mourners resulting in a fracas.

Wandayi through a statement on Monday, May 22 stated that the standoff may interfere with Siaya county’s proper functioning.

He further stated that quality service delivery cannot be ensured “unless something drastic is done about the evidently toxic relationship” between Orengo and Oduol.

Also Read: Orengo Says President Ruto has no Business Warning Kenyans About Rule of Law

Nonetheless, governor Orengo and his deputy Oduol have been feuding over several issues including corruption and side-lining allegations. As such, the brawl between them has resulted in a petition by three activists.

Opiyo Wandayi saidt he had read a report of the Siaya County Assembly on the various allegations levelled against Orengo’s leadership.

“It is my finding that the said report is prima facie balanced. A careful reading of the report and the recommendations thereof leaves one with no option but to agree with the County Assembly. Allegations of corruption must be backed by solid evidence,” stated Wandayi.

While terming Oduol’s post under Governor Orengo untenable, Wandayi advised the deputy governor to vacate his seat.

“Hon. Oduol should tender his resignation without any further delay. This would then create room for Hon. Orengo to appoint a replacement with whom he can harmoniously steer the County Government of Siaya,” Wandayi said.