Raila condemns circulation of claims that Orengo had resigned due to illness
Speaking on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Ndori Primary School grounds in Gem, Siaya County, during a fundraising event for the Church of Christ in Africa (CCA), Odinga described the behaviour as primitive and likened the perpetrators to “witches.”He dismissed the false claims that Orengo had resigned, saying the propaganda was deeply irresponsible and damaging to both the governor and the community.“I was in constant communication with Governor Orengo throughout his time abroad and don’t understand the motives behind those who circulated such misinformation,” Odinga said. “Orengo has returned to the country in good health and is more energised than ever.”This comes after Orengo’s prolonged absence from the public eye had sparked speculation about his health and influence in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). The rumours intensified when a letter later flagged as fake circulated online claiming that Orengo had resigned from the party.
Call for unity
Odinga urged residents of Luo Nyanza to focus less on divisive politics and instead prioritise development as the country heads toward the 2027 elections. He said the period should be used to drive progress under the broad-based government rather than spread rumours.
The ODM leader also reaffirmed his commitment to attracting investors to the region. He encouraged residents of Gem Constituency to support the upcoming operations of Shanta Gold, a mining company preparing to begin gold extraction in the area.
Earlier reassurance
Orengo himself made his first public appearance on Friday, August 8, 2025, when he joined mourners at the funeral of former MP Phoebe Asiyo in Wikondiek, Homa Bay County. Taking to the podium, Orengo reassured Kenyans of his wellbeing. “I want to reiterate that I am alive, I am a stone and there is nowhere I am going,” he declared.