Siaya County official suspended over Orengo criticism
By Kenneth Mwenda, February 26, 2026Siaya County has suspended Richard Omondi Odhiambo, the County Information Management Officer, popularly known as Makamu Wa Makamu, after he criticised Governor James Orengo at a political rally.
The suspension took effect immediately on 25 February 2026.
The suspension letter, signed by Chief Officer for Governance, Administration and ICT Walter Okello, accuses Omondi of gross misconduct, insubordination, and violations of several laws.
These include Section 16 of the Public Officer Ethics Act, sections 4.6 (c) and (d) of the Public Service Disciplinary Manual 2022, and sections J.7 and J.18 of the Public Service Human Resource Policies and Procedures Manual 2016.
According to the letter, the county received reports of Omondi’s conduct at a public political event in Kisumu County on 25 February. The letter states that Omondi uttered unsavoury, derogatory, insulting and disrespectful remarks in reference to the person of James Orengo, the Governor of Siaya County.
“This office is notified of an incident during a public political activity within Kisumu County on the 25th day of February 2026 at which you uttered unsavoury, derogatory, insulting and disrespectful remarks in reference to the person of H.E. James Orengo, the Governor of Siaya County,” the letter read.
Political backlash
Reports indicate that Omondi attended a rally associated with the rival Linda Ground faction of the ODM party. At the event, he accused Governor Orengo of undermining the party and damaging its political capacity in Ugenya.
The statements triggered immediate backlash in Siaya County. The suspension letter directs Omondi to hand over all county property in his custody to the undersigned without delay. It also requires him to show cause in writing within seven days why the county should not take further disciplinary action, including dismissal.
The letter warns:
“Should you fail to submit a written response within this period, the matter shall be processed and finalised without further reference to you, guided by applicable statutes and law.”
Copies of the letter were sent to the Governor, the CECM for Governance, Administration and ICT, the County Secretary and Head of Public Service, the CEO/Secretary of the County Public Service Board, and the Director of Human Resource Management.