Siaya DG Oduol seeks truce with Orengo, calls for unity in county leadership

Acknowledging that the tensions between them had caused concern among residents, Oduol made a public appeal for reconciliation, citing the constitutional values of integrity and mutual respect.
Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol has called for unity and reconciliation with Governor James Orengo, describing their recent fallout as regrettable but resolvable, and reaffirming his loyalty and readiness to serve under the county boss.
In a detailed statement issued on Tuesday, Oduol expressed unwavering allegiance to Orengo, who is currently undergoing treatment abroad, and committed himself to upholding constitutional principles and responsible leadership in the county.
“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,” Oduol said.
Acknowledging that the tensions between them had caused concern among residents, Oduol made a public appeal for reconciliation, citing the constitutional values of integrity and mutual respect.
“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,” he stated.
He underscored that leadership should never be about competition or personal gain but must be guided by service to the people.
“Leadership is not about personal ambition or rivalry; it is, and must always be, about selfless service,” he said.
Oduol emphasized that unity within the County Executive was key to delivering on promises made to Siaya residents. His remarks come amid rising public concern over Governor Orengo's continued absence and the uncertainty it has caused in the county’s leadership.
Orengo is said to be receiving medical care in the United States, though his family has not released an official update.
Oduol said he would seek a consultative meeting with Orengo once he returns to address any pending issues and reinforce their joint commitment to serving the people.
“Upon the Governor’s return, I will initiate a consultative meeting to address our differences and recommit to our shared responsibilities,” he noted.
The deputy governor also weighed in on the ongoing debate over the separation of powers within the county structure, urging leaders to respect their constitutional limits.
He specifically called on the County Assembly to stick to its legislative mandate and avoid overstepping into executive roles.
“The county assembly is not an extension of the Executive, nor is it mandated to perform administrative functions. Its role is legislative: to enact laws, approve budgets, and provide oversight,” he explained.
“I call upon all leaders and institutions, specifically the Speaker of Siaya County, Hon. George Okode, to respect this separation of powers, and to safeguard the institutional boundaries that ensure good governance and constitutional order,” he added.
As part of efforts to restore public trust and improve governance, Oduol presented a four-point plan which includes a reconciliation meeting with the governor, continued execution of duties as delegated, formal engagement with the County Assembly, and unwavering commitment to service delivery.
“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,” he concluded.