The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has responded to claims that Siaya Governor James Orengo has resigned as county boss.
This comes after a letter circulating online — purportedly from Governor Orengo — claimed he had stepped down, citing personal health challenges that require his full and immediate attention.
“It is with a heavy heart and after profound reflection that I hereby tender my resignation from the office of the Governor of Siaya County, effective immediately,” read part of the letter.
However, ODM in a statement on Monday, August 4, flagged the letter with a fake stamp on it informing Kenyans that the information is false.
“We can authoritatively state the letter below us FAKE. Ignore it and focus,” ODM said.
ODM Dismisses James Orengo Resignation as Siaya Governor
In the fake letter, Governor Orengo was quoted as saying that after extensive consultation with his family and doctors, he had found himself unable to continue discharging the “demanding duties” of the governor’s office.
He allegedly thanked Siaya residents for the honour of serving them, expressed pride in his administration’s achievements, and pledged to ensure a smooth transition to his successor in accordance with the Constitution.
“I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together and deeply grateful for the trust and confidence the citizens placed in me,” the letter read further.
“I am committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition of leadership. My office will cooperate fully to hand over all duties and responsibilities to my successor in accordance with the Constitution of Kenya.”
The letter further conveyed his gratitude to county staff and elected leaders for their support, expressing confidence that Siaya would continue to thrive in his absence.
Unease as Governor Orengo Disappears from Public Eye
The fake letter emerged amid growing unease in Siaya County over Governor James Orengo’s unexplained absence from the public eye for almost a month.
He was last seen on June 23, 2025, when he appeared before the Senate Public Accounts Committee.
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With residents increasingly anxious about who was running the county, attention also turned to his frosty relationship with Deputy Governor Dr William Oduol.
The two have reportedly not been working harmoniously for close to two years, a rift that is said to have paralysed operations in the county’s Executive.
“Who is in charge of Siaya County in the governor’s absence? What is really happening? We elected Governor Orengo to lead and serve the people of Siaya. This situation is deeply troubling. If things fall apart, who will be held accountable?” posed Ben Aringo, a resident of Central Alego.
A group of Siaya residents under the Siaya Bunge la Mwananchi forum has petitioned the County Assembly to explain the prolonged absence of Governor James Orengo and his deputy Oduol.
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Led by High Court Advocate Maurice Okumu, the residents urged MCAs to exercise their oversight role and address rising public concern.
After submitting the petition to the Deputy Clerk, Okumu further accused the County Speaker of overstepping by performing executive functions, warning that this could amount to a conflict of interest.
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If the letter is fake then we want truth.