Siaya Governor James Orengo has dismissed reports that he was chased away from a burial ceremony in Kisumu County, saying he left the venue peacefully and without incident after the main program ended.
In a statemen on May 2, Orengo said he attended the funeral of Eliud Nyikal, the father of Seme Member of Parliament James Nyikal, solely to console the bereaved family and had no political agenda at the function.
Addressing remarks about his encounter with a rowdy group, the veteran politician termed media reports suggesting he fled due to hostile crowds incorrect, adding that they failed to reflect what actually happened on the ground.
The governor was among leaders who attended the burial of the father of Seme MP James Nyikal at Ridore Primary School on Saturday.
The event later became tense after rival political groups exchanged slogans, forcing organizers to move swiftly to complete the burial.
He said claims that he was chased away were misleading and unfair.
Happenings at the Burial
Orengo said he left the ceremony after the presiding bishop and MP James Nyikal had already departed to proceed with the burial of the deceased at his home.
“We did not leave because we were chased. We departed because the burial process had already moved on. Our role was simply to stand with the family,” Orengo said.
Local media reports indicated that a section of youths caused a disturbance soon after Orengo arrived, leading to a brief scuffle.
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The incident forced church leaders to shorten the service to avoid further chaos.
Some media stations later reported that the governor had been forced out of the venue.
However, Orengo insisted there was no physical harm and that his team left calmly and traveled safely to the airport.
He said the situation should not be politicized or exaggerated, especially during a moment meant for mourning.
Several leaders from the region also attended the burial, which drew a large crowd.
Funerals in parts of Nyanza have in recent years become politically charged, with leaders often facing rival groups despite calls for restraint from religious leaders.
Orengo’s Shift of Focus
After leaving Kisumu, Orengo returned to Nairobi to prepare for the East African Local Authorities Sports and Cultural Association festival, scheduled to begin in Mombasa on Monday, May 4, 2026.
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He said the trip was planned in advance and had nothing to do with the funeral incident.
The governor confirmed that Siaya County will participate in the regional event and said he would attend in his capacity as the Patron of the Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Association.
The festival brings together county teams from across East Africa for sports and cultural activities.
Orengo said the event is important for promoting unity, talent, and cultural exchange among counties and the wider region.
He added that Siaya’s participation reflects the county’s commitment to supporting youth, sports, and culture.
While at Kisumu airport, Orengo said he and his team were warmly received by locals and spent time engaging with residents before boarding their flight.
He praised the people of Kisumu for their hospitality and calm despite the earlier tension at the burial.
“The reception at the airport showed the true spirit of Kisumu,” he said. “The people were peaceful, welcoming and respectful.”
The governor said such moments should remind leaders and citizens alike of the need to protect social harmony, especially at public gatherings.
He urged media houses to report events responsibly and avoid headlines that could inflame tensions.
