Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol faced an unexpected setback over the weekend when he was denied the chance to address mourners at a high-profile burial ceremony.

The event was for the late High Court advocate Evans Oruenjo, the son of Alego Usonga ODM chair Oruenjo Umidha, attracting many prominent political figures from Nyanza.

Dr. Oduol, who arrived early to pay his respects, was met with surprising disdain.

As the ceremony began, Gem lawmaker Elisha Odhimbo took to the podium, speaking to the crowd that had gathered to honor Mr. Oruenjo, who had been his lawyer during court petitions.

Later, however, rather than acknowledging Dr. Oduol, Siaya Township MCA Obiero Otare, often referred to as the “defacto Deputy Governor,” was given the opportunity to speak.

Despite the absence of Governor Orengo and ODM leader Raila Odinga at that point, Dr. Oduol waited patiently.

When Mr. Odinga and other elected leaders, including Alego Usonga lawmaker Samuel Atandi, arrived, they were all given the platform to speak. Yet, Dr. Oduol remained sidelined.

The tension in the air was palpable. At one point, a hot microphone inadvertently captured a conversation in Luo vernacular, adding to the drama of the day.

“Ineno nade, wami Oduol nafas omos oganda?” (What is your opinion, should we allow Oduol address the gathering?)

“Ooyo, ng’atno oknyal wuoyo kama antiere,” (No, that man cannot talk where I am)

When Governor Orengo took over, he also him and welcomed Mr Odinga to address the congregation; after which they all left.

This incident left many in the community questioning the snub of Dr. Oduol, a leader of his stature, during such a significant event.