Gladys Wanga formally accepts resignation of Deputy Governor

Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga on Friday formally accepted the resignation of Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga, declaring his seat vacant with immediate effect.

In a statement issued on 27 February 2026, Wanga confirmed she had received a resignation letter dated 26 February 2026. Citing Article 181(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and Section 32C(b) of the County Governments Act, 2012, she formally declared the Office of the Deputy Governor vacant.

I received and accepted the resignation of the Deputy Governor. As we await the constitutional process for a new Deputy Governor, our administration remains focused on serving the people. pic.twitter.com/BXLnGZlpdG

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— Gladys Wanga, E.G.H. (@gladyswanga) February 27, 2026

A partnership born of party pressure

The alliance between Wanga and Magwanga had never been a natural one.

Before the 2022 General Elections, Magwanga had been a gubernatorial aspirant in his own right. He stepped aside following a direct request from the Orange Democratic Movement, agreeing to serve as deputy governor in the interest of party unity.

Beyond his constitutional role, Magwanga was also appointed County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Livestock Development. Wanga stated his office received full institutional support throughout his time in service.

“Growing preoccupation with future political ambitions had increasingly affected the collective focus required in the Deputy Governor’s office.”

Irreconcilable differences and the Kasipul factor

The resignation letter cited “persistent and irreconcilable differences” as the primary reason for Magwanga departure.

Wanga pointed to two compounding tensions. She said Magwanga mounting focus on his own political future had distracted from the responsibilities of his office.

She also referenced his public opposition to the ODM candidate in the Kasipul constituency by-election — a move she described as undermining unity of purpose within the county leadership.

County operations to continue uninterrupted

Despite the leadership change, Wanga moved to reassure residents that county services would not be disrupted.

She pledged her administration would uphold accountability, expand development across all wards, and maintain institutional stability.

On behalf of the county government and the people of Homa Bay, Wanga thanked Magwanga for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors.