A bold clash over power in Homa Bay: Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga claims his office was unlawfully locked after a major reshuffle. Magwanga says unknown individuals locked his office, along with the County Secretary and Payroll Management offices, just days after Governor Gladys Wanga removed him from the Agriculture portfolio. He condemns the move as a shameful, retrogressive insult to public office and a direct attack on democracy and the rule of law.
Magwanga warned that locking offices over political disagreements undermines governance and violates the people’s trust, reminding that public offices are held in trust for the public, not as personal property. He urged Governor Wanga to identify those responsible, reverse the closures, and restore access to the offices.
The deputy governor stressed that leadership should prioritize citizens, foster unity, and uphold democratic norms, adding that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and lawful channels rather than intimidation or the misuse of power.
This incident coincides with a broad administrative shake-up in Homa Bay County following the contentious Kasipul parliamentary by-election on November 27, 2025. Governor Wanga has reorganized her administration, resulting in several senior officials losing their posts. Magwanga was stripped of the CEC for Agriculture, and Dr. Peter Ogolla, the former CEC for Lands, also lost his position.
In a correspondence signed by County Secretary Bernard Muok, Wanga explained that the changes aim to improve service delivery. She announced that Danish Onyango would move into the Agriculture portfolio in an acting capacity, while Dr. Peter Ogolla would be dismissed under Section 35(a) of the County Governments Act. Joseph Mitito was nominated for the Lands docket and will be forwarded to the county assembly for vetting. The changes were effective immediately, with a directive for a smooth transition.
Governor Wanga had previously warned officials to align with her administration or resign, signaling that further reshuffles could follow. A senior unnamed county official indicated more changes were on the way, involving several chief officers and directors.
The political fallout traces back to the Kasipul by-election, where Boyd Were, backed by Wanga, emerged victorious. Magwanga had publicly supported independent candidate Philip Aroko, setting the stage for ongoing tensions over leadership and allegiance.
