HOMA BAY, Kenya- Joseph Oyugi Magwanga has resigned from his position as Deputy Governor of Homa Bay County, citing ongoing frustrations and obstruction that made it impossible for him to effectively execute his duties.
Magwanga, who was elected in 2022 on a joint ticket with Gladys Wanga, announced his resignation during a press briefing in Oyugis town, Kasipul Constituency on Thursday, 26 February 2026.
He said the decision came after “deep reflection and consultations with leaders, supporters, and my family,” and will take effect immediately.
In his address, Magwanga described how his office was locked in December 2025 without formal notice, preventing him from accessing his workspace.
“I firmly believe that public office is a sacred trust. 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,” he said.
He also alleged that his official vehicle was withdrawn, while the remaining county vehicle was unserviceable and lacked fuel, effectively rendering the Office of the Deputy Governor inoperative.
Magwanga said he could not, “in good conscience, continue to draw a salary funded by the taxpayers of Homa Bay County while being deliberately prevented from performing the work they elected me to do.”
Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga resigns, makes announcement in Oyugis TownVideo by James Omoro
He added that public office is a sacred trust that must be anchored in respect for institutions, constitutionalism, and mutual trust.
The fallout between Magwanga and Governor Wanga has simmered for over a year, with sharp political and administrative disagreements culminating in legal action earlier this month when he took the matter to court.
“These actions have rendered the Office of the Deputy Governor functionally inoperative and have made it impossible for me to serve effectively,” he stated.
The relationship further deteriorated after divergent positions during the November 2025 Kasipul parliamentary by-election.
Magwanga has also indicated his intention to contest the Homa Bay County gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, setting up a potential contest against Governor Wanga.
His resignation marks a significant shift in Homa Bay’s political landscape as attention turns to next year’s polls.
