Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol. /FILESiaya Deputy Governor William Oduol has extended an olive branch to Governor James Orengo, calling for reconciliation and unity in the wake of what he acknowledged as regrettable differences between them.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, Oduol reaffirmed his loyalty to Orengo, who is currently out of the country for medical treatment, and pledged his continued commitment to constitutional governance and responsible leadership.
“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 stated.
Describing the disagreements that have surfaced between him and the governor as unfortunate but not insurmountable, he made a public gesture aimed at mending the rift.
“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 said.
Oduol stressed that “leadership is not about personal ambition or rivalry; it is, and must always be, about selfless service."
He added that unity within the County Executive was essential to meeting the expectations of Siaya residents.
Oduol's statement comes in the wake of mounting concerns over Orengo's prolonged absence from public life and the perceived leadership vacuum it has created in Siaya county.
Orengo is reportedly receiving medical attention in the US, although his family is yet to issue an official statement.
""Upon the Governor’s return, I will initiate a consultative meeting to address our differences and recommit to our shared responsibilities."
Meanwhile, Oduol also addressed concerns over the separation of powers between the County Executive and the County Assembly, urging adherence to constitutional boundaries.
He said 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 said.
“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 said.
The deputy governor outlined a four-point plan to help restore public confidence and maintain the integrity of county leadership.
Among the proposed actions are initiating a consultative meeting with Governor Orengo upon his return, continuing to discharge his duties in alignment with the governor’s instructions, engaging formally with the County Assembly, and remaining dedicated to public service.
“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,” Oduol concluded.
