Magwanga stepped down after months of tension within the county leadership. The disagreement intensified after the Kasipul by-election held in November 2025.
During the contest, Magwanga backed an independent candidate instead of the candidate supported by Orange Democratic Movement. The move created a major rift within the county’s political structure.
The former deputy governor later submitted his resignation letter, saying he was facing difficulties performing his duties due to challenges within the county administration.
Governor Wanga formally accepted the resignation on February 27 and declared the position vacant.
Since then, attention has shifted to who will be chosen as the next deputy governor.
Despite speculation across the county, Wanga has not announced any nominee. Several senior county officials have been mentioned as possible replacements.
Among them is Solomon Obiero, the County Executive Committee Member for Finance. Professor Ben Muok, who serves as the County Secretary, has also emerged as a strong contender because of his close working relationship with the governor.
Other names circulating in political circles include Isaac Ongiri, the Chief Officer for Governance and Devolution, Joash Aloo from the Water and Environment department, Dannish Onyango who handles Agriculture and Roads, and former Homa Bay County Assembly Speaker Samwel Ochillo.
Among these candidates, Obiero and Muok are widely seen as the most likely choices. Both have represented the governor in key meetings and development engagements in the county. Their roles in county administration have also increased their visibility in recent months.
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