Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has removed Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga from his role as County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Agriculture, following tensions over his open support for a rival candidate in the recent Kasipul by-election. The decision has sent shockwaves across the county’s political circles, highlighting deep divisions within the local government.
Magwanga publicly backed Phillip Aroko against ODM’s Boyd Were, whom Governor Wanga endorsed, sparking a fallout that culminated in his reassignment. In response, Wanga appointed Danish Onyango as Acting CEC for Agriculture while retaining his Roads and Infrastructure portfolio, signaling a swift consolidation of power.
The governor also dismissed Dr. Peter Ogolla from Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, nominating Joseph Mitito to take over pending County Assembly approval. Wanga emphasized that internal disagreements would no longer be tolerated, stating that officials opposing her administration must either cooperate or step aside.
Her move underscores growing political friction ahead of upcoming elections and raises questions about loyalty and accountability within county leadership. Analysts suggest that the reshuffle reflects Wanga’s determination to assert control and marginalize dissenters, even at the risk of escalating political tensions.
The fallout has left Magwanga vulnerable, as a Deputy Governor can only be fully removed through a County Assembly motion approved by two-thirds of MCAs and upheld by a Senate investigation, according to the Constitution. For now, his influence within the county is severely curtailed, leaving local supporters concerned about their political future.
This development illustrates the high-stakes nature of Kenyan county politics, where alliances can shift quickly and public dissent carries immediate consequences. Residents and political observers are now watching closely to see how the administration navigates the ripple effects of this dramatic cabinet shake-up.
By Kenyans