The simmering behind the scenes wrangles between Siaya Governor James Aggrey Bob Orengo and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga has finally received a face.

Dr. Oburu Oginga has gone to court blocking the County Government of Siaya from proceeding with construction of a modern market project in Bondo town launched by the Governor on May 5, 2025.

Dr. Oburu together with a Mr. Oruko Oburu claim to be the rightful owners of the property Bondo Township/58 and Bondo Township/59 which has been used by traders for many years on an informal basis. They claim in their affidavits to having  legally obtained a 99-year lease for the parcels, effective from July 1, 2024.

The Siaya County Government with a view to providing a more conducive environment for traders selling second-hand clothes undertook to put up a permanent modern market in the parcel of land.

Within the same parcel the Senator has put up a three-storied structure called Oburu Plaza.

Whereas the Senator appeared not to have issues with the traders as long as they occupied the space informally, the putting up of safe trading structures have now forced him to show his hand.

Lady Justice Edda Dena ruled on May 27, 2025, that given the urgency of the matter, the current status be maintained and no further construction or development should take place on the said parcels until the court provides further directions.

The issue now brings into sharp focus the reason behind Oburu’s uncoordinated frequent attacks on the political stance of Governor James Aggrey Bob Orengo. It may also expose the tendency by leaders to encroach on public land and legalize the encroachment by obtaining leasehold titles.

One of the first official functions Governor James Orengo performed on return to the country this week was hold a meeting with the Chairman of the National Land Commission (NLC), Mr. Gershom Otachi, Commissioners Reginald Okumu and Hubbie Hussein Al-Haji.

The purpose of the meeting was to address the ongoing concerns surrounding the lease of the Yala Delta. Orengo reiterated his commitment to finding a just solution that favours Siaya residents.

“We are committed to ensuring that the voices of the affected communities are heard and that any resolution respects both the rights of the people and the rule of law. Constructive engagement among all stakeholders remains essential as we work toward a lasting resolution.”

While the Siaya Court under certificate of urgency granted the prayers of Dr. Oburu Oginga and Mr. Oruko Oburu, the Environment and Lands Court is scheduled to issue further directions on the matter.