SIAYA, Kenya – Siaya Deputy Governor Dr. William Oduol has spoken out publicly for the first time amid growing speculation over the temporary absence of Governor James Orengo from office, calling for unity, constitutional order, and a reset in the working relationship at the helm of county leadership.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Dr. Oduol reaffirmed his loyalty to Governor Orengo, while also acknowledging “regrettable differences” that have strained their partnership — tensions that have recently spilled into the public domain and triggered debate within county leadership circles.
“As Deputy Governor, my role is complementary, not parallel, to that of the Governor,” Oduol said in a press briefing from his office. “My allegiance to His Excellency is resolute and unwavering. I stand ready, as always, to receive and faithfully execute his instructions in the best interest of the people of Siaya.”
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A Rift Laid Bare
While avoiding direct accusations, Oduol admitted that the executive has not been operating in full harmony.
Without disclosing the nature of their disagreement, he made a pointed call for reconciliation, invoking Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity.
“In the spirit of service, I extend a hand of reconciliation to His Excellency,” he said. “Leadership is not about rivalry or personal ambition. It is, and must always be, about selfless service.”
His remarks are seen as a bid to calm political tensions and restore focus on service delivery following reports of friction between the top two leaders in the county.
Message to County Assembly: Know Your Role
In the same address, the Deputy Governor took aim at what he described as “institutional overreach,” particularly by the County Assembly leadership, which he warned against encroaching on executive functions.
“The County Assembly is not an extension of the Executive,” Oduol said, in what appeared to be a veiled rebuke of Speaker George Okode. “Its role is legislative: to make laws, approve budgets, and provide oversight — not to direct administrative operations.”
He urged all arms of government in Siaya to respect the constitutional separation of powers, warning that any attempt to exercise power outside legal frameworks is unconstitutional under Article 3(2) of the Kenyan Constitution.
Proposed Steps for Moving Forward
Dr. Oduol outlined a four-point plan aimed at healing institutional rifts and re-centering the county government around service delivery. Among his proposals:
- Consultative engagement with the Governor upon his return to resolve differences;
- Operational alignment with lawful instructions from the Governor;
- Structured dialogue with the County Assembly to clarify roles;
- Renewed commitment to serve the public with transparency and accountability.
Rallying Call to Citizens and Leaders
Concluding his remarks, the Deputy Governor called on all stakeholders — from elected leaders to civil servants and ordinary residents — to put aside political differences and uphold the ideals of devolution.
“Let us rise above division, suspicion, and institutional tension,” he said. “Let us recommit ourselves to the promise of devolution — built on good governance, accountability, inclusivity, and public participation.”
The statement comes amid mounting concerns about a perceived leadership vacuum in Siaya County, with Governor Orengo’s continued absence fuelling speculation about deeper political cracks within the executive.
