James Orengo Addresses Viral Letter about His Alleged Resignation on Medical Grounds
- On Monday, August 4, a viral letter surfaced online, alluding to the resignation of James Orengo as the Siaya governor
- The well drafted letter had stated the main reason behind Orengo's alleged resignation from the prestigious position
- Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Orengo's office explained the correct position of the governor, who has been missing in public
- Speaking exclusively to TUKO.co.ke, political analyst Peter Chirchir warned that fake resignation letters can erode public trust and fuel unnecessary political anxiety
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Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over four years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
Siaya - James Orengo has refuted claims of resigning as the Siaya county governor.
Source: Facebook
On Monday, August 4, a resignation letter surfaced online purporting to have been written by Orengo.
Speaking exclusively to TUKO.co.ke, constitutional lawyer and political analyst Peter Chirchir noted that the circulation of such a letter, particularly one touching on a sitting governor’s health and resignation, can have far-reaching consequences if not addressed promptly.
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Chirchir explained that fake letters of resignation, especially when crafted with official-sounding language and structure, have the potential to erode public trust in democratic institutions and create unnecessary anxiety among constituents.
"Such fabrications do not merely misinform; they exploit public concern and can destabilise both political and administrative operations in a county. It's important for leaders and institutions to respond swiftly and transparently in such situations to maintain public confidence and uphold constitutional order," he told TUKO.co.ke.
Has James Orengo resigned?
In the viral letter, Orengo allegedly cited health challenges in executing his constitutional duties as the main reason why he had resigned from his position.
The alleged resignation letter, addressed to the speaker of Siaya County Assembly, claimed Orengo had consulted his medical team and his family before arriving at the decision.
"It is with a heavy heart and after profound reflection that I hereby tender my resignation from the office of the Governor of Siaya County, effective immediately.
This decision has been necessitated by personal health challenges that require my full and immediate attention. After extensive consultation with my famliy and medical professionals, it has become clear that I am unable to continue to discharge the demanding duties and responsibilities of the governor's office to the best of my ability," the purported resignation letter read.
However, speaking exclusively to TUKO.co.ke, Orengo's office flagged the letter as fake.
"That is not true. The letter is fake," Orengo's office said.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party also issued a statement dismissing the viral letter.
In a tweet, the Raila Odinga-led party said it had established that the letter was fake and hence Kenyans should ignore it.
"We can authoritatively state the letter is fake. Ignore it and focus," ODM stated.
The reports about Orengo's resignation come amid speculation about his continued absence from the public.
Where is James Orengo?
For more than one month, Orengo has not been seen in public performing his duties even though he has been active on his social media platforms.
Despite the flagging of the viral resignation letter, a section of Kenyans have questioned about Orengo's silence.
@Makiadi:
"The people of Ugenya are wailing and asking where their son, James Aggrey Orengo, has disappeared to."
Alinur Mohamed
"There are rumours flying everywhere about the health of Siaya County Governor James Orengo and none has been dispelled by the County spokesperson or even his account. Would be very sad if it turned out true."
Ja Rongo™🇰🇪:
"There are some wild allegations that Siaya governor James Orengo was poisoned and they don't want to reveal the truth. Orengo has gone missing from the public for close to a month now."
@_fra_ncis:
"Where is he though he's been quiet which is unlike him."
Source: Facebook
Why leaders wanted James Orengo impeached
As reported earlier, Orengo is among ODM party leaders opposed to President William Ruto's leadership.
At some point, Orengo came under sharp criticism for opposing former prime minister Raila Odinga's move to join the broad-based government.
Some leaders threatened to initiate a process to remove Orengo from office over what they termed as “indiscipline and political betrayal”.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
