KISUMU, May 19th -A fierce political storm is brewing in Kenya’s lakeside region after Siaya Governor James Orengo was accused of making sexually charged remarks targeting ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga.
Orengo’s sentiments depict the Homabay Governor as someone whose ‘political success is linked to sexual favours.’
The statement, captured in a viral video, has triggered widespread condemnation from female leaders and local stakeholders across Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori counties.
In the video that surfaced less than 24 hours ago, Governor Orengo is heard making a comment widely interpreted as an attack on Governor Wanga’s dignity and professional standing.
The female leaders have labelled the shameful remarks as a form of internet-facilitated gender-based violence noting that Orengo should be charged under the Sexual Offences Act of 2006.
Leading the backlash in Kisumu County, Deputy Speaker Nereah Okombo said Orengo’s words degrade both the office of governor and the constitutional principles he is sworn to defend.
“Orengo is a senior counsel and one of the framers of the 2010 Constitution. His utterances do not complement the office he holds,” Ms Okombo said.
She argued that the remarks violate Article 73 of the Constitution, which demands that state officers demonstrate respect and fidelity to the people.
Ms Okombo has called upon the Council of Governors to convene an urgent meeting to mediate between the two governors and issue a stern warning to Orengo.
South West ward MCA Jennifer Obonyo said female leaders are angered by the derogatory attack and will not remain silent.
“Siaya governor’s shameful remarks are a threat to women’s leadership. Such acts should not be tolerated,” she said.
Meanwhile, female MCAs in Siaya have reportedly begun collecting signatures to prepare an impeachment motion against their own governor.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo-Mabona also criticised the rhetoric, stating: “Let us disagree respectfully. What someone has done in their private life cannot help the common man.”
The incident comes at a sensitive political moment, as the ODM party seeks to consolidate its grassroots base ahead of pre-election pact negotiations with UDA.
