The renowned lawyer Willis Otieno, also known as “Piki Piki Ponki Lawyer” has made a triumphant return to the public eye through his involvement in the high-profile case of Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol.
Ponky’s unexpected development has sparked intrigue and curiosity among legal professionals and the public alike, as they eagerly await the unfolding drama at the Senate.
Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol is facing a Senate hearing after ward representatives removed him from office. The hearing is conducted by the Senate Special Committee, chaired by Senator William Kisang’ from Elgeyo Marakwet.
The agenda for Wednesday’s hearing includes a conference of parties, the introduction of the Special Committee Members, Members representing the County Assembly of Siaya, and the council. The Deputy Governor and his counsel will also be introduced to the committee.
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The committee will read out the charges against the Deputy Governor and proceed to hear the evidence presented by the County Assembly of Siaya. On Thursday, June 22, 2023, the Deputy Governor will present his evidence.
The County Assembly members unanimously voted to impeach Oduol due to gross misconduct, violation of the Constitution, and abuse of office. The Assembly Speaker, William Oduol, pronounced the decision on June 8, 2023, after giving the Deputy Governor an opportunity to be heard.
Throughout the process, the Deputy Governor has the right to appear and be represented before the Senate committee to defend himself. If the committee finds no evidence supporting the allegations, the proceedings conclude.
However, if evidence is found, the Senate will vote on the impeachment charges, ensuring a fair hearing for the Deputy Governor.
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If a majority of the Senate members vote in favor of the impeachment, the Deputy Governor will be removed from office. If the Senate rejects the impeachment charges, the Senate Speaker will notify the speaker of the respective county assembly.
However, the same charges can be reintroduced before the assembly after three months if the Senate votes against the impeachment. If the Senate upholds the assembly’s impeachment, a vacancy will occur in the deputy governor position.
In such a scenario, the responsibility falls on the county governor to nominate a new deputy within 14 days. The Members of County Assembly will then vote on whether to approve or reject the nomination within 60 days.
The report by the Special Committee will be presented in the Senate during a Special sitting on June 26, 2023.
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William Oduol finds himself embroiled in a heated feud with his boss, Governor James Orengo.
The conflict stems from alleged plots to oust Oduol from the party, tarnish his reputation with corruption allegations, and even bribe MCAs to remove him from office.
Governor Orengo’s actions are driven by his fear that Oduol could pose a formidable challenge in the upcoming 2027 elections. Determined to hinder Oduol’s future political aspirations, Orengo is leaving no stone unturned in his efforts to frustrate his deputy.
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