Siaya Governor James Orengo’s Deputy, William Oduol, has addressed the possibility of his resignation amid Governor Orengo’s prolonged absence from the office.
While addressing the media in Lavington on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the Deputy Governor, who has experienced a frosty relationship with the Governor, responded to questions regarding whether he would step down due to mounting public pressure and calls from Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
Oduol firmly stated that he would not resign unless the governor dissolved the County Executive.
“I will only step down if the governor dissolves the County Executive, but resignation is not part of my plan,” he said.
He stressed that the County Assembly, led by the Speaker, is a distinct and independent arm of government, as outlined in Article 185 of the Constitution. This article defines the Assembly’s legislative duties, which include enacting laws, approving budgets, and providing oversight.
William Oduol Declines to Step Down as Orengo’s Deputy
Oduol maintained that the Assembly is not an extension of the Executive and is not mandated to perform administrative functions.
He noted that the Executive, under the leadership of the Governor, is responsible for implementing laws and managing day-to-day county operations.
“I call upon all leaders and institutions, specifically the Speaker of Siaya County, Hon. George Okode, to respect this separation of powers and safeguard the institutional boundaries that ensure good governance and constitutional order,” Oduol added.
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Oduol also acknowledged that he has had several differences with Governor Orengo and extended an offer of reconciliation. He expressed his intention to also reach out to the County Assembly once the Governor returns to office.
In addressing rumors surrounding the Governor’s absence, particularly claims of poisoning, the Deputy Governor dismissed these allegations as false, asserting that Orengo is simply seeking treatment elsewhere due to illness.
“The Governor is just sick, and from the information I have received, he is under treatment. The poisoning speculations are mean and malicious,” Oduol stated.
Kenyans Urged to Dismiss Poison Rumors
His remarks were echoed by lawyer Miguna Miguna, who urged the public to refrain from spreading false statements about the Governor and confirmed that Orengo is currently hospitalized in California.
“Mr. James Orengo is admitted to a hospital in California. He is ill. There is zero evidence of poisoning. Let’s exercise caution, especially regarding issues of ill health. We wish him a quick recovery,” the lawyer stated.
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Governor James Orengo has not been seen in public since June 23, 2025, when he appeared before the Senate Public Accounts Committee.
This absence, which has lasted over a month, has sparked speculation and concern among Kenyans, further fueled by a fake resignation letter circulating online.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode have dismissed these rumors, clarifying that Orengo is abroad for personal matters.
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