Gem constituency residents are accusing Siaya governor James Orengo of sidelining them in senior county positions in his government.

Led by South Gem ward member of the county assembly, Brian Anyango, alias Otuom Polo, the residents say governor Orengo has not only sidelined the constituency, but was also giving the youth a raw deal if his latest appointments was anything to go by.

Otuom Polo said the latest list of county executive committee member and chief officer nominees that the governor forwarded to the county assembly for consideration did not represent the face of the county.

“As Gem residents, we are not featuring anywhere, thus begging the question if regional balance was considered” he said.

Further, he accused the governor of rewarding political rejects at the expense of service delivery.

Otuom Polo called on his colleagues in the county assembly and members of the civil society to reject the list as a way of doing justice to the unemployed youth.

“The way forward is to reject the list. He has to consider the youth and regional balance in his government” he said.

Additionally, he said that Gem people must be considered in the appointments.

On his part, Gem Youth Leader, Benjamin Agunda described the nomination of a former Siaya county public board member to head the gender and youth docket as ridiculous.

“We all voted for Orengo and as Gem people, we are demanding that he ensures regional balance while making appointments” said Agunda.

Last week, Orengo forwarded a list of eight people to the county assembly for consideration and approval for various positions.

Former principal secretary, Prof. Jacqueline Adhiambo Oduol for the position of CECM, water, sanitation, environment, climate change and natural resources are among the nominees.

Former member of the Siaya county public services board, Dr. Nicholas Kut Ochogo has been nominated for the chief officer position in the department of youth, gender and social services.