Gladys Wanga has broken her silence regarding the ongoing public exchange with Siaya Governor James Orengo, a dispute that has captured public attention and spilled onto the streets of Homa Bay as residents took opposing stances.
In Homa Bay, women organized demonstrations expressing solidarity with Wanga and condemning remarks they deemed disrespectful, while other residents publicly aligned themselves with Orengo’s position.
In a reconciliatory statement, Wanga clarified she was speaking not in her official capacity but “simply as Gladys: daughter, mother, wife, and a woman” reflecting on recent comments made about her.
Wanga explained she initially chose silence because she believes “not every disagreement demands public contest, and not every hurt should invite a public response,” but concluded the situation had evolved beyond individual political differences.
Addressing Orengo directly, she expressed her long-standing view of him as a respected elder and mentor figure.
“You have represented courage, conviction, and the possibility of principled leadership,” she wrote, noting she had held him “with the affection and deference one would extend to a father figure.”
However, Wanga acknowledged the remarks had left her feeling hurt.
“That is perhaps why they hurt,” she suggested, pointing out that criticism directed at women leaders often carries consequences extending beyond political realms.
Wanga stated that comments that “diminish, ridicule, or reduce” women due to gender, age, or their position in public life reinforce experiences familiar to many women facing exclusion and intimidation.
“Many women are told to speak more softly, lead smaller, occupy less space, or defer not because they are wrong, but because they are women,” she emphasized.
Despite the public exchanges, Wanga confirmed she would not escalate the dispute.
“I therefore choose forgiveness. I was humbled just as I was humiliated,” she wrote.
She also indicated willingness to move forward through dialogue, stating the region deserved “leadership that inspires hope, not needless turf wars with a girl the age of your daughter.”
Wanga urged leaders to maintain dignity even during disagreements and quoted Malala Yousafzai: “We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced.”