By Ongaga Ongaga
Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ has weighed in on the resignation of former deputy governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga, describing the fallout as disappointing.
Kajwang’ cautioned that unresolved internal conflicts could haunt the county’s leadership.
In a statement released after Governor Gladys Wanga accepted Magwanga’s resignation, Kajwang said the breakdown of the partnership was particularly painful given the effort invested in forging the joint ticket ahead of the 2022 elections.
Kajwang recalled that the Wanga–Magwanga pairing was deliberately assembled by the late Raila Odinga as a unity ticket bringing together political rivals, and that he personally played a central role in reconciling the two leaders during the campaign period.
“As a matchmaker, and on behalf of many who believed in the duo, this divorce is disappointing,” Kajwang said, adding that had reconciliation been possible, it should have been explored before the partnership collapsed completely.
While thanking Magwanga for his service to the people of Homa Bay, the senator urged Governor Wanga to take time to reflect on the issues that led to the resignation, warning that similar challenges could face whoever is appointed or elected next.
“If substantive concerns are swept under the carpet, the same fate could befall the next deputy governor,” he said.
Kajwang’s remarks come amid growing political tension following Magwanga’s exit, which, according to reporting by Kisii Press Club, followed a prolonged standoff within the county executive.
Magwanga cited being locked out of his office, withdrawal of official vehicles, and lack of operational support, arguing that the conditions made it impossible for him to discharge his constitutional duties.
Despite the unfolding dispute, Kajwang said leaders from Homa Bay had deliberately maintained peace to allow the county government to focus on development, noting that stability was essential for progress.
“Peace is a very deliberate undertaking to prevent war,” he said, urging leaders to use the current goodwill to build an efficient and people-focused administration.
The senator emphasized that leadership disputes should never overshadow service delivery, stressing that the interests of residents must come before political rivalries as the county navigates the transition following the deputy governor’s departure.
