Tensions between Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and her Deputy, Oyugi Magwanga, have erupted into a public showdown as alleged goons attempted to block the latter from entering his office this morning.
The duo, catapulted into power in 2022 after a stunning defeat of the former Nairobi governor, have rapidly soured their relationship, mirroring a similar rift between Siaya Governor James Orengo and his Deputy William Oduol just a year prior.
A confidential source within Homa Bay County’s corridors of power disclosed to Kondele News that Magwanga may have triggered the escalation by allegedly reporting supposed financial malfeasance to the EACC, substantiated with compelling evidence.
“The governor’s inner circle suspects the Deputy Governor of tipping off the EACC about financial mismanagement, leading to widespread animosity towards Magwanga. Even junior officials are openly showing disdain towards him,” the informant revealed.
Among those reportedly exacerbating Magwanga’s predicament is Kasipul lawmaker Ong’ondo Were.
At a recent function, Were’s pointed remark, “Effective service requires each person to focus on a singular role,” (one man one job), seemed directed at Magwanga, who juggles the responsibilities of Deputy Governor and CECM for Agriculture simultaneously.
Former Kasipul legislator Magwanga has taken his concerns to ODM’s National Executive Council, decrying what he perceives as his boss’s mishandling of their office dynamics.
Reports suggest that key appointees loyal to Magwanga were sidelined during government formation, straining an already fragile partnership.
The two leaders reconciled ahead of the August 2022 polls after intervention from ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Initially, Mr. Magwanga had mounted a vigorous campaign to succeed former County boss Cyprian Awiti, while Ms. Wanga was also eyeing the same seat under the ODM party banner.
Negotiations were intensive, marked by compromises that saw Mr. Magwanga reluctantly accepting the role of deputy to Ms. Wanga.
Dr. Kidero, also vying for the ODM party ticket, later contested against them as an independent candidate after they forged their alliance.
