ODM Breaks Silence on Orengo’s ‘Resignation’ Letter
ODM has dismissed reports that Siaya Governor James Orengo has resigned, putting to rest days of speculation on his position.
A letter circulating on social media on Monday morning appeared to show that Governor Orengo had written to the Speaker of the Siaya County Assembly resigning his position. But ODM quickly labelled the document a fake and told the public to ignore it.
“We can confirm the letter below is fake. Ignore it,” the party said in a short statement.
The letter dated August 4, 2025 claimed Orengo had resigned with immediate effect due to personal health issues that required his urgent and full attention. It also said the decision was after discussions with family and medical professionals.
Orengo thanked Siaya residents, elected leaders and county staff, calling his time in office the highest honour of his public career.
The letter had a signature and was copied to key officials including the Deputy Governor, County Secretary, Clerk of the Assembly, Council of Governors Chairperson and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Meanwhile Siaya County is facing a leadership crisis as both Governor Orengo and Deputy Governor William Oduol are under scrutiny for their prolonged absence from office.
A resident, Julius Oluoch, has petitioned national authorities accusing both leaders of not fulfilling their constitutional duties, resulting in stalled county operations.
Oluoch claims Orengo has not been seen in public for over a month and that county business including the approval of the 2025/2026 budget is stalled.
The leadership vacuum is deepened by the rift between Orengo and Oduol with the deputy governor alleging he has been deliberately excluded from his duties.
Governor Orengo has not spoken on the matter. In his absence, Speaker George Okode is in charge of county activities.
Last week, County Chief of Staff Colonel (Rtd) Cyrus Oguna hosted senior national government officials including Defence PS Patrick Mariru and Medical Services PS Ouma Oluga to discuss development projects being undertaken by the military in the region.
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ODM Breaks Silence on Orengo’s ‘Resignation’ Letter