- Oyugi Magwanga released a statement condemning Governor Gladys Wanga’s decision amid their political fallout
- Magwanga explained how political differences should be resolved without interrupting services to the citizens of Homa Bay
- He made an urgent appeal to the county boss and urged her to affirm her commitment to serving the electorate with honour
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features in digital and print media.
Homa Bay deputy governor Oyugi Magwanga has fiercely responded after his boss, Governor Gladys Wanga, took punitive action against him.
Source: Facebook
Magwanga lamented that his office, along with those of the county secretary and payroll management, was unlawfully locked, barring staff from performing their duties.
What did Magwanga say after closure of offices?
According to a statement obtained by TUKO.co.ke, Magwanga noted that the act was not only unethical and illegal but also a troubling display of blatant impunity and abuse of power.
Search option is now available at TUKO! Feel free to search the content on topics/people you enjoy reading about in the top right corner 😉
“I condemn this shameful and retrogressive assault on public administration in the strongest possible terms. The locking of offices is nothing short of reckless, considering the serious economic and social challenges we face as a county. It serves as a clear sign of interference that disregards the public interest,” he said.
Magwanga and Wanga fell out during the recently concluded by-election in Kasipul Constituency, where the former supported independent candidate Philip Aroko, while the latter backed Boyd Were, the son of the late MP Ong’ondo Were.
Source: Facebook
Magwanga warned that his political disagreement with the governor should not lead to such an ‘intolerable attack’ on the people of Homa Bay.
“Locking up government offices over political disagreements is an unacceptable assault on our democratic institutions and the rule of law,” he added, noting that the decision was a calculated political move aimed directly at undermining his office and that of his staff.
He emphasised that political differences and dissenting opinions must be resolved through dialogue, respect, and lawful means, not through intimidation, exclusion, or misuse of authority.
What does Magwanga want from Wanga?
The deputy governor further cautioned elected leaders against treating government offices as personal property or manipulating them for political gain.
He argued that such actions strip the government of its integrity, stall essential services, and threaten the democratic principles upon which the county is built.
“Public service demands respect, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the citizens we serve, not petty political vendettas,” he stated.
Magwanga called on Wanga to immediately reverse the unlawful office closures, restore access to all locked offices, and recommit to serving the people with honour and fairness.
Did Wanga strip Magwanga of key role?
Meanwhile, Wanga stripped Magwanga of his role as CECM for Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock Development and replaced him with Danish Onyango, the current CECM for Roads, Public Works, Transport, and Infrastructure.
She also announced the appointment of Joseph Mitito as the new CECM for Lands, taking over from Peter Ogolla, a close ally of her deputy.
While describing Mitito as a consummate professional with strong leadership qualities, Wanga did not give a specific reason for the removal of Ogolla.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
