Gladys Wanga, Governor of Homa Bay County, has nominated Roads and Public Works executive Danish Onyango as the county’s new deputy governor following the resignation of Oyugi Magwanga on February 26, 2026.
The nomination marks a significant leadership shift in the county administration and comes alongside a broader Cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening service delivery.
Basis for Nomination
In a statement, Governor Wanga cited Onyango’s performance and integrity as key factors behind her decision. She noted that he has demonstrated strong, results-driven leadership and possesses the capacity to expand the county’s road network and improve connectivity across all 40 wards.
Onyango, who hails from Kabondo Kasipul constituency, has been serving as the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Roads and Public Works and was also acting CECM for Agriculture and Livestock.
Magwanga’s Resignation
The nomination follows the departure of Magwanga, who stepped down citing sustained frustration and what he described as deliberate obstruction by elements within the county leadership.
In his resignation letter, Magwanga said his office had become ineffective, prompting his decision after consultations with political allies, supporters and family. He had been elected alongside Wanga in 2022 following consultations led by the late Raila Odinga.
Wider Cabinet Changes
Governor Wanga also announced a series of appointments and reassignments within the county executive:
- Elijah Obiny Dede has been nominated as CECM for Trade, Industry, Tourism, Marketing and Co-operative Development. He previously served as chief officer in the same department.
- Issack Ongiri has been nominated as CECM for Devolution, Communication and Governance, having served as chief officer in the department.
- Dr. Joash Aloo, formerly Trade executive, has been reassigned to the Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock Development docket.
Next Steps
All nominations will be forwarded to the Homa Bay County Assembly for vetting and approval in line with legal requirements.
Governor Wanga has also directed the county secretary to oversee a smooth transition and handover process within the affected departments.
Governance Outlook
The changes are expected to reshape the county’s leadership structure at a critical time, with a focus on enhancing infrastructure development, agricultural productivity and administrative efficiency.
