Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has formally declared the position of Deputy Governor vacant following the resignation of Oyugi Magwanga.
In an official statement issued on February 27, 2026, Governor Wanga confirmed receipt of Magwanga’s resignation letter dated February 26, 2026, and accepted it with immediate effect, declaring the Office of the Deputy Governor vacant from that date in line with Article 181(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and Section 32C(b) of the County Governments Act, 2012.
“I have today formally accepted the said resignation. Pursuant to Article 181(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and Section 32C(b) of the County Governments Act, 2012, I hereby declare the Office of the Deputy Governor, Homa Bay County, vacant with effect from 26th February 2026,” the statement read in part.
The Governor acknowledged Magwanga’s service, including his role as County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Livestock Development.
“Upon assuming office, this administration fully supported the Deputy Governor’s constitutional role and further entrusted him with the additional portfolio of County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Livestock Development. His office was fully supported during his tenure,” she wrote.
Governor Wanga noted that the “persistent and irreconcilable differences” mentioned in his resignation had increasingly hindered the effectiveness of collective executive duties.
She reassured residents that county operations will continue normally and that the vacancy will be filled in accordance with the law, emphasizing that the county government remains committed to accountability, development, and uninterrupted service delivery.
In his resignation Thursday Magwnaga said: I cannot, in good conscience, continue to earn a salary funded by the taxpayers of Homa Bay County while being deliberately prevented from performing the work they elected me to do. Leadership must be anchored in respect for institutions, constitutionalism, and mutual trust.
The resignation follows a public fallout with Magwanga, who opposed the ODM candidate in the Kasipul by-election, Boyd Were, and instead supported independent candidate Philip Aroko. Magwanga has already declared his intention to contest the 2027 gubernatorial race against Wanga on an ODM ticket. This move could set up a high-profile contest and test ODM’s unity ahead of the next general election cycle.
Magwanga had served as Wanga’s running mate in 2022 after stepping aside from his own gubernatorial ambitions at the party’s request.
As the 2027 elections approach, his early declaration has sparked intense political discussion, with many anticipating a competitive race for the Homa Bay governorship. The key question now is whether ODM can withstand the test of time.
