Siaya Governor James Orengo, MCAs Fight for Control of Multimillion-Shilling Ward Projects

Siaya Governor James Orengo is currently facing challenges amidst a simmering dispute with ward representatives.

According to reports, representatives from different wards are striving for increased authority over the high-stake projects that are currently ongoing in their areas. In an attempt to mend fences, Senator Orengo sat down with the officials in a meeting held at a hotel in Kisumu late on Monday. Although Assembly Majority Leader Martin Otieno confirmed the gathering on Tuesday, he rejected assertions that the MCAs were holding the governor captive. Otieno highlighted that the primary objective of the meeting was to foster stronger working relationships between the county executive and the elected officials. When questioned over the tender controversies, Deputy County Governor William Oduol acknowledged their existence but declined to provide specific details.

A high-ranking county official who spoke on condition of anonymity explained that the county assembly members' requests originate from a previous, undisclosed understanding with the governor. Due to the support provided by these members, the governor was able to defeat Nicholas Gumbo, running at the polls with the United Democratic Movement party. The source further alleged that some MCAs have personal interests in securing the tenders. In Migori County, there were reports of certain Siaya MCAs refusing to greet the governor. A similar situation occurred in South Sakwa during a celebration held for MCA Eunice Achieng. The relationship between Mr Orengo and the MCAs has been positive ever since he took on the leadership role.

The governor had always received the support of legislators while leading the county, but when a dispute arose between him and Mr Oduol, the MCAs efficiently moved to impeach Mr Oduol. The Senate ultimately waded in and reaffirmed Oduol's position. However, this commotion ensued in the backdrop of a larger controversy around the county's accounting practices. Budget Controller Margaret Nyakang'o voiced her concerns regarding fund disbursal for development initiatives by the county assembly. Such aspirations include creating an assembly complex, advancing ward offices, erecting meeting halls, building the Speaker's dwelling, installing ward office fencing, and erecting halls in ward offices.

A petitioner named Mr Chris Owala has taken the matter to court, challenging the recent staff recruitment. The case is scheduled for a hearing at the Siaya High Court today. In his additional court statement, Mr. Owala alleges that the Orengo administration has irresponsibly utilized public funds by hiring more employees than necessary. According to reports, some of these newly recruited individuals have resigned from their previous jobs upon receiving their appointment letters, but have not yet been officially incorporated into the county government or included in the payroll.