Alego-Usonga MP Samuel Onunga Atandi has called for protests on Thursday, September 11 to oppose Governor James Orengo’s plan to relocate the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University (JOOUST) from the Siaya Farmers Training Centre (FTC) land, ostensibly to pave way for construction of County Headquarters.
Atandi argues the 80-acre public parcel should be handed over fully to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) to expand its Siaya campus.
“We do not need new county headquarters. The whole title deed must be given to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University. This will be the mother of all demonstrations,” Atandi declared.
Governor’s Position
Governor Orengo has defended the plan, noting that JOOUST had been given 50 acres of the contested land for development—yet little progress has been made to date. He points out that the proposed headquarters would occupy only 5 acres, leaving room for educational use and expansion of the existing TVET on the FTC site.
His administration maintains the move aligns with his campaign manifesto, which promised both stronger local institutions as well as modern county infrastructure. An example is the former Siaya Institute which has been granted a National Polytechnic charter.
Atandi insists the county risks losing JOOUST if Orengo proceeds, warning of lost businesses and jobs tied to the university. But critics question his sudden passion for education, noting he has rarely raised the issue before.
The dispute exposes Siaya’s recurring challenge: university projects on allocated land have repeatedly stalled, including the failed Odera Kang’o University in Yala.
With protests set for Thursday, the clash has become a test of priorities— and political wits — whether the Governor holds his ground and develops Siaya according to a work plan or accedes to political manipulation.
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