Homa Bay County Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga has resigned, citing irreconcilable differences with Governor Gladys Wanga.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, February 26, 2026, Magwanga said he was stepping down with a clear conscience.
“I leave office with my conscience clear and my commitment to the people of Homa Bay County unwavering. My resolve to advocate for integrity and proper management of public resources and the fulfilment of our county remains stronger than ever,” Magwanga stated.
Eyes on 2027 Gubernatorial Race
Magwanga also declared his intention to contest the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, setting up a potential showdown with the incumbent, Governor Wanga.
His resignation marks the culmination of a deteriorating working relationship that has played out politically and legally over the past year.
Fallout Linked to Kasipul By-Election
The once-cordial ties between the two leaders began to unravel following divergent political positions and internal administrative disagreements.
The fallout is widely traced to the November 27, 2025, Kasipul parliamentary by-election. Magwanga publicly defied Wanga by campaigning for Kasipul MP candidate Philip Aroko, despite Wanga leading campaigns for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate Boyd Were.
The by-election exposed sharp political divisions within the county leadership and is widely seen as the turning point in their strained relationship.
Administrative Shake-Up
Shortly after the by-election, Governor Wanga initiated a sweeping reorganisation of her administration.
The shake-up saw several senior officials lose their positions, including Magwanga, who was removed from his role as County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Agriculture. Dr Peter Ogolla, who had been serving as CEC Member for Lands, was also relieved of his duties.
In a letter signed by County Secretary Bernard Muok, the governor defended the changes as necessary to enhance service delivery.
Magwanga’s departure now leaves Homa Bay County facing fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls.
