Wanga Fires Warning Shot at Orengo After Explosive Remarks

Homabay governor gladys wanga at a apst event . Photo/ gladys wanga/ x

Homabay governor and ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga has publicly responded to remarks made by Siaya County Governor James Orengo, saying the comments reflected the challenges women continue to face in leadership and public life.

In an open letter addressed to Orengo, Gladys Wanga said she initially chose to remain silent after the remarks but later felt compelled to speak because of what the incident represented for women in leadership spaces.

“I write this letter in my personal capacity, not as Governor of Homa Bay County, nor as Chairperson of the ODM Party, but simply as Gladys: daughter, mother, wife, and a woman who, like many others, continues to navigate leadership in spaces that often demand strength while offering little grace,” she wrote.

She described Orengo as a respected elder and mentor figure whom many young politicians admire for his courage and leadership, and argued that it was painful, as she had always regarded him with deep respect.

Gladys Wanga Responds to James Orengo Over Women’s Leadership

According to Gladys Wanga, the issue was not political criticism itself but the broader message it sent about women in leadership.

The Homa Bay governor argued that women in leadership often face criticism and insults that men in similar positions may never experience.

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She further noted that remarks that appear to ridicule or diminish women reinforce wider societal attitudes linked to exclusion, intimidation, and gender-based discrimination.

However, despite expressing disappointment and hurt, Gladys Wanga said she did not intend to escalate the matter through prolonged public exchanges.

She also maintained that she still respects Orengo as a senior leader whose contribution to public life deserves honour, adding that she was open to dialogue.

“I therefore choose forgiveness. I was humbled just as I was humiliated. More importantly, I choose to leave the door open for engagement, dialogue, and collaboration on matters that uplift our people and propel our community forward,” she added.

Leaders React Over Remarks Against Homabay Governor

Following James Orengo’s remarks, members of the Siaya County Assembly threatened to table an impeachment motion against him.

Speaking on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Majority Chief Whip Booker Bonyo threatened to collect signatures to kick off the impeachment process.

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He described Orengo as a rogue governor for making comments that the MCA Women Caucus described as ‘sexist’, referring to Wanga’s political career.

“I, as the whip, want you members to allow me to whip you to impeach Orengo. I’m going to collect signatures for Orengo to be impeached because we cannot have a rogue governor,” he stated.

Elsewhere, Siaya County Assembly Majority Leader Martin Otieno demanded an apology from Orengo, declaring that the MCAs would not attend any executive functions until the county chief expressed regret over his utterance.

Nominated MCA Cynthia Akinyi also expressed disappointment with the Siaya Governor, adding that he should be mentoring young leaders instead of undermining them, especially female ones.

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