Siaya Governor James Orengo has dismissed speculation about his health following months away from the public eye, clarifying that his absence was due to travel and routine medical check-ups in India.
Speaking on a local television station on Monday, Orengo said he chose to reappear publicly to allow residents to assess his condition for themselves, rather than relying on rumours.
“It was humbling to step out and let people see for themselves,” he said, stressing that his appearance was intended to end speculation.
Orengo provided a detailed account of his travels, noting that he visited several major Indian cities.
“I went to New Delhi and Hyderabad, where I spent some time with friends,” he said.
He linked his recent trip to previous visits to India, explaining that past experiences and personal connections guided his travel choices.
“A few years ago I had gone to Chennai,” he said, recalling a visit that had shaped his interest in exploring other parts of the country.
The governor added that a friend’s suggestion influenced his decision to visit Hyderabad.
“I have a friend who lives in Kenya, but comes from Chennai, and he suggested to me that I should go to Hyderabad, that is a modern metropolis,” he said. “I should look at what’s coming up in that particular area in India.”
Speculation about Orengo’s health had intensified during his absence, with concerns circulating about whether he was unwell.
He addressed these directly, confirming that he underwent medical checks as part of his normal routine.
“While there, of course, I went through some medical checkup, which I normally do,” Orengo said. He noted that traveling to India for such purposes was not unusual. “I have gone to Chennai. I’ve gone to New Delhi. I go to Bombay,” he added, listing previous visits.
Orengo suggested that rumours were fueled by his decision not to comment publicly while abroad.
Rather than issuing statements remotely, he said he opted to present himself in person.
“But it was just that,” he said, referring to the trip. “And I thought, instead of answering to rumors, yeah, I should just present myself, and then people can, you know, make up their mind about what they thought my status is.”
By appearing publicly and providing a clear timeline of his movements, Orengo sought to reassure residents of Siaya County and dispel concerns about his health.
His explanation emphasized that his absence was routine, spent traveling, reconnecting with friends, and attending to personal matters.
