Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol has opened up on his differences with Governor James Orengo, acknowledging ongoing tensions between them.
In a statement on Tuesday, August 5, Oduol reaffirmed his loyalty to Orengo and said he remains fully committed to his role as the deputy governor.
"In light of recent developments and the temporary absence of His Excellency the Governor from office, I wish to address you with utmost respect, clarity, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of constitutionalism and responsible leadership.
"As Deputy Governor, my role is clearly defined under Article 179 of the Constitution of Kenya, which establishes the County Executive Committee, comprising the Governor, Deputy Governor, and other Members approved by the County Assembly. I serve as the principal assistant to the Governor, and I remain fully loyal to his leadership, vision, and mandate," he said.
Oduol admitted that internal differences have emerged between him and Orengo, but stressed that they should not be mistaken a challenge to the authority of the governor’s office.
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"My allegiance to His Excellency is resolute and unwavering. I stand ready, as always, to receive and faithfully execute his instructions, per the law and in the best interest of the people of Siaya. I do so not in isolation, but in full recognition that my mandate is complementary, not parallel, to that of the Governor. Our partnership is founded on the shared goal of delivering transformative, accountable, and people-centred governance.
"Differences have indeed emerged between me and His Excellency the Governor. While these disagreements are regrettable, they do not diminish my deep respect for his office, nor do they detract from our collective commitment to serving," he added.
As a result, Oduol called for reconciliation and unity, warning that prolonged discord within the leadership could distract from the county’s core responsibilities to its citizens.
"In the spirit of Chapter Six of the Constitution, which enshrines leadership and integrity, I extend a hand of reconciliation to His Excellency. I remain open to dialogue, driven by mutual respect and guided by the institutions we both serve. Leadership is not about personal ambition or rivalry; it is, and must always be, about selfless service.
“Now more than ever, we must come together to restore harmony, reinforce unity within the Executive, and focus our energy on the needs and aspirations of the people we are privileged to serve,” he remarked.
To help repair the strained relationship, Oduol outlined a number of immediate measures he plans to undertake including initiatiating a consultative meeting with Orengo once he returns.
He also revealed his intention to continue discharging his duties in full alignment with the lawful instructions of the Governor, in service to the people.
Additionally, Oduol said he plans to seek structured engagement with the County Assembly through formal channels, in order to reaffirm the constitutional roles of both his office and that of the governor.
He also pledged to serve with diligence, humility, and fidelity to the law, while working to restore public confidence.
"Let us rise above division, suspicion, and institutional tension. Let us instead recommit ourselves to the promise of devolution, a system built on Good Governance, Accountability, Inclusivity, and service to the people through Public Participation.
"I call upon all leaders, public servants, and citizens to walk this journey with me: a journey of reconciliation, constitutional order, and unwavering service to the great people of Siaya County," the statement concluded.
