Siaya Governor James Orengo has made his first public appearance in weeks, assuring Kenyans that he is in good health following widespread speculation about his prolonged absence.
Orengo resurfaced on Friday, August 8, during the funeral of former MP Phoebe Asiyo in Wikondiek, Homa Bay County. He arrived late and was introduced to mourners by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga before proceeding to greet President William Ruto and ODM party leader Raila Odinga.
Taking to the podium, Orengo appeared energetic and in high spirits, using the opportunity to dispel rumours surrounding his health and political future.
“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 for several weeks, prompting concern and speculation over his whereabouts. Siaya County Secretary Joseph Ogutu previously stated that the governor was away on a private mission abroad, stressing that the county government remained fully operational.
“There is no cause for concern. The governor is away on a private mission that is part of his executive responsibilities,” Ogutu said.
When pressed for further details, Ogutu declined to disclose the nature of the mission or the expected date of Orengo’s return, citing protocol and confidentiality. “The nature of the business remains private. I cannot comment further since the County Speaker had also stated that the governor was on a private mission,” he added.
The governor’s absence had stirred unease both in Siaya and nationally, with questions raised about his health and visibility within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.
The concerns were further amplified after a letter dated August 4, 2025, began circulating online, falsely claiming that Orengo had resigned from ODM citing personal health challenges. The letter claimed the decision was made after consultations with family and doctors.
ODM swiftly dismissed the document as fake. “We can authoritatively state that the letter below is fake. Ignore it and focus,” the party said in a brief statement.
Orengo’s appearance and statement have now put to rest weeks of speculation about his condition and position.
