Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has publicly responded to recent remarks by Siaya Governor James Orengo, issuing a strongly worded open letter that frames the dispute as a broader reflection on respect, leadership, and the treatment of women in public life.
In the letter addressed directly to Orengo, Wanga adopts a restrained but firm tone, expressing both personal disappointment and concern over the implications of the comments.
She reveals that she initially chose silence, but later decided to speak out, not for personal defense, but to address what she described as a deeper societal issue.
“I have reflected deeply on the remarks you recently made concerning me,” Wanga wrote. “I chose silence at first… yet some moments require reflection, not because of the individuals involved, but because of what they represent.”
The governor underscores her long-standing respect for Orengo, describing him as a senior figure whose political legacy has inspired many younger leaders.
However, she notes that this respect also heightened the impact of his remarks, which she says went beyond ordinary political criticism.
“That is perhaps why they hurt,” she stated, adding that words from senior leaders carry influence that shapes attitudes and public culture.
Wanga’s response shifts focus from personal grievance to systemic challenges faced by women in leadership. She argues that comments perceived as dismissive or demeaning toward women reinforce long-standing patterns of exclusion and bias.
“When remarks directed at a woman carry undertones that diminish or ridicule her… they travel far beyond their immediate target,” she wrote. “They become an echo familiar to millions of women and girls.”
Without directly quoting Orengo’s statements, Wanga characterizes them as contributing to a wider environment where women are often pressured to “speak more softly” or “occupy less space” in leadership roles.
She links the incident to broader experiences of gender-based discrimination in workplaces and public institutions.
Despite the criticism, Wanga stops short of escalating the political confrontation. Instead, she emphasizes reconciliation and restraint, stating clearly that her intention is not to demand a public apology or prolong the dispute.
“I do not write this to seek an apology through public pressure,” she said. “I therefore choose forgiveness.”
The letter also signals Wanga’s commitment to continued political engagement and collaboration, even amid tensions. She reiterates her respect for Orengo as a senior leader and expresses willingness to work together on issues affecting their region.
“Our region deserves leadership that inspires hope, not needless turf wars,” she noted.
Wanga also references her political stance within the ODM party, indicating that her support for Senator Oburu Oginga as party leader may have contributed to the tensions. However, she maintains that her position is based on democratic processes and should not attract personal attacks.
She concludes the letter with a call for reflection among leaders, urging a political culture where disagreements do not erode mutual respect.
“May this moment become not a point of division, but an opportunity for reflection, healing, and a renewed commitment,” she wrote, adding a quote emphasizing the importance of preserving voices rather than silencing them.