‘I’m Alive, No Cause For Concern!’ – Governor Orengo Says In First Public Appearance
Siaya Governor James Orengo has made his first public appearance, assuring Kenyans of his good health following a long hiatus from the public glare that sparked questions about his whereabouts.
Orengo attended the funeral of former MP Phoebe Asiyo in Wikondiek, Homa Bay County, on Friday, August 8.
The county chief, who arrived late, was presented by Governor Gladys Wanga before proceeding to the dais, where he greeted President William Ruto and ODM party leader Raila Odinga.
Orengo, who appeared full of vigor, took to the podium moments later to reassure Kenyans that he was in good condition.
“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.
" I am alive and kicking strong."
— OTWOMA THE BRAND🇰🇪 (@Isaac_Otwoma) August 8, 2025
~ James Orengo Roars in Homa Bay today at the funeral of Phoebe Asiyo pic.twitter.com/MhhL2XW9fc
Orengo had been out of the public eye, with Siaya County Secretary Joseph Ogutu admitting that he was abroad on personal business.
Ogutu refuted concerns that the governor had abandoned duty, claiming that the county’s executive leadership remained whole 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 asked for specifics about the mission, Ogutu declined, citing confidentiality and protocol.
“The nature of the business remains private, and therefore, I cannot comment on the same,” he added.
“That would be a case of insubordination since the County Speaker had also issued a statement stating that he is on a private mission.”
Welcome back Governor @orengo_james pic.twitter.com/1ML8Rpxrx3
— The ODM Party (@TheODMparty) August 8, 2025
He also declined to confirm the governor’s return date, stating that it remained part of sensitive 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 has raised popular worry in Siaya and throughout the country, particularly given his low-key participation in recent county activities.
Orengo’s absence fueled speculation about his bad health and diminishing position in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
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This is especially true after a letter, later identified as a forgery, revealed Orengo had resigned from ODM.
The letter, dated August 4, 2025, stated that Orengo had resigned with immediate effect, citing personal health issues that demanded his full and urgent attention.
It further said that the choice was made after consulting with family members and medical specialists.
“We can authoritatively state that the letter below is fake. Ignore it and focus,” the party said in a brief statement.
‘I’m Alive, No Cause For Concern!’ – Governor Orengo Says In First Public Appearance
