Siaya Governor James Orengo has made his first public appearance, reassuring Kenyans of his good health after a prolonged absence from the public eye raised eyebrows on his whereabouts.
Orengo joined mourners at the funeral of former MP Phoebe Asiyo in Wikondiek, Homa Bay County on Friday, August 8. The county boss, who arrived late, was introduced by Governor Gladys Wanga before making his way to the dais, where he greeted President William Ruto and ODM party leader Raila Odinga.
Orengo, who seemed full of energy, took to the podium moments later and reassured Kenyans that he was in good health.
"I am sorry I have arrived late. I am with you in all that has been said. I want to reiterate that I am alive, I am a stone and there is nowhere I am going," he said.
Orengo had been out of the public eye, with Siaya County Secretary Joseph Ogutu confirming that he was abroad attending to a private matter.
Ogutu had dismissed speculation that the governor had deserted duty, stating that the executive leadership of the county remained intact and functional.
"There is no cause for concern. The governor is away on a private mission that is part of his executive responsibilities," Ogutu stated.
However, when pressed for details regarding the mission, Ogutu declined to provide any specifics, citing confidentiality and protocol. “The nature of the business remains private, and therefore, I cannot comment on the same. That would be a case of insubordination since the County Speaker had also issued a statement stating that he is on a private mission,” he added.
He also declined to confirm the timeline for the governor’s return, reiterating that it remained part of confidential government business. “It is private, and I am not in a position to disclose when he will be back,” Ogutu noted.
The governor’s absence had sparked public concern in Siaya and across the country, especially following his low-profile presence in recent county activities.
Orengo's absence had sparked rumours of poor health and diminished presence in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This is particularly after a letter, which was later flagged as fake, had disclosed Orengo had resigned from ODM.
The letter, dated August 4, 2025, claimed Orengo had resigned with immediate effect, citing personal health challenges that required his full and urgent attention. It further stated that the decision was made after consultations with family and medical professionals.
“We can authoritatively state that the letter below is fake. Ignore it and focus,” the party said in a brief statement.
