Senator Godfrey Osotsi, the Deputy Party Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has openly criticized Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga for allegedly marginalizing party members personally introduced to ODM by Raila Odinga.
In a post on X dated February 26, 2026, Osotsi stated, “Hon @gladyswanga is undermining and opposing all the individuals Baba Raila ODINGA brought into ODM. Baba intended for Gladys Wanga and her Deputy, Oyugi Magwanga, to collaborate effectively. Instead, she has excluded him. The political landscape in Homa Bay warrants close scrutiny. #LindaMwananchi @TheODMparty.”
Osotsi’s remarks were accompanied by an image featuring the late Raila Odinga alongside Wanga and Magwanga. His comments emphasize what he perceives as Wanga’s intentional disruption of a collaborative framework established by Raila before the 2022 elections, raising alarms about potential divisions within ODM, especially in the Nyanza region.
The controversy coincided with Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga’s resignation, which he attributed to months of exclusion that impeded his ability to fulfill his duties effectively.
In his resignation letter, Magwanga reflected, “In 2022, I accepted the privilege of serving as the running mate for Her Excellency Gladys Wanga after discussions led by the late former Prime Minister and ODM party leader Raila Odinga.” He reaffirmed his dedication to serving Homa Bay in accordance with the Constitution.
Tensions escalated following the Kasipul by-election in late 2025, when Magwanga defied ODM directives by endorsing independent candidate Philip Aroko instead of the party’s choice, Boyd Were. After Were’s victory, Wanga removed Magwanga from his role as County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock Development, temporarily assigning the position to Danish Onyango. Other close associates of Magwanga, including Peter Ogolla in the Lands portfolio, faced similar reassignments or dismissals.
The rift hints at a deeper divide as the 2027 elections approach. Further conflicts emerged when county services relocated to a new headquarters. Magwanga declined to occupy his office, claiming it had been “bewitched,” and later found that the locks had been changed, preventing his access. He characterized this situation as a violation of constitutional rights and an attempt to marginalize him while still receiving a salary.
After consulting with leaders, supporters, and family, Magwanga announced his resignation and revealed his intention to run for Homa Bay governor in 2027. He accused Wanga of mismanagement, failing to pay contractors, and prioritizing personal ambitions over public service.
In response, Wanga’s camp reacted firmly. County Executive Committee Member for Finance Solomon Obiero urged Magwanga to resign if he intended to campaign against the governor, asserting that it was incompatible to serve while “backbiting” his superior. Wanga, who also holds the position of ODM National Chairperson, has dismissed allegations of division, calling for unity to safeguard Raila’s legacy.
As Magwanga prepares to campaign and influential figures like Osotsi publicly question Wanga’s commitment, political tensions in Homa Bay are poised to escalate in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
