Siaya Governor James Orengo has denied accusations of mistreating his Deputy, Dr. William Oduol.

Speaking before the Senate Committee on Devolution on Thursday, May 23, 2024, in response to Dr. Oduol’s grievances, Governor Orengo emphasized that he lacks the authority to undermine his deputy, as the powers of the office are protected by the Constitution.

“The challenges faced by my deputy are rooted in politics. He made the decision to change his political allegiance against the wishes of Siaya residents, resulting in a loss of trust,” Orengo explained.

“I want to make it clear to this Committee that even if I were to alter my political stance and support the policies of another party in Siaya County, apart from ODM, both residents and leaders would reject me,” Orengo informed the committee chaired by Wajir Senator Abbas Mohamed.

Dr. Oduol has been advocating for the ruling Kenya Kwanza wing following his survival of an ouster attempt last year.

Initially, Dr. Oduol informed committee members that Governor Orengo had been subjecting him to humiliation and obstructing him from fulfilling his duties since June 27, 2023, when the motion to remove him from office was rejected by the Senate.

“Governor Orengo disregarded the Senate’s directive to allow me to carry out my official duties without obstruction after the impeachment motion was dismissed,” Oduol asserted.

Furthermore, the deputy governor complained to the senators that whenever he attempted to attend cabinet meetings, Governor Orengo would deploy his security detail and a group of individuals to forcibly remove him.

Dr. Oduol also expressed frustration that he had been personally funding the fuel for his official vehicle.

However, Mr. Orengo refuted these allegations, stating that the fuel expenses for Oduol’s official vehicle are covered by the Siaya County government.

“I have provided receipts, signed by Dr. Oduol’s driver, confirming that the county government bears the cost of fuel for his vehicle,” Orengo clarified.