Homa Bay is on edge after a shocking assassination attempt targeting Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga.
Governor Gladys Wanga has broken her silence, urging residents to shun violence and uphold peace as security agencies hunt down the attackers.
The Sunday night incident saw gunmen open fire at Magwanga’s vehicle near his homestead.
Though the deputy governor was not inside the car, the attack rattled the county’s leadership and raised fresh concerns about the safety of public officials.
Wanga now demands swift justice and a firm response to stop the violence from escalating.
Governor Wanga Demands Justice After Magwanga Assassination Attempt
Governor Gladys Wanga has made a passionate appeal to the people of Homa Bay to remain calm and peaceful following the attempted assassination of her deputy, Oyugi Magwanga.
In a firm statement released on Monday evening, Wanga condemned the attack and called on security agencies to act swiftly.
“I am deeply concerned about reports of an incident involving my deputy governor, Hon. Oyugi Magwanga. Any occurrence that raises concerns about the safety and security of our leaders deserves attention and immediate action,” she said.
The governor emphasized that violence is not the answer to political or personal disputes. She urged residents to reject lawlessness and reaffirm their commitment to peace and democracy.
Wanga also called on the police and investigative bodies to move with urgency to uncover those behind the cowardly act and prosecute them. “I urge our security agencies to move swiftly and impartially to investigate this matter and ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” she added.
The attack drew comparisons to the recent killing of Kasipul MP Charles Were, who gunmen shot dead in Nairobi. Wanga warned that the region could slide into a pattern of political violence if leaders fail to address the issue promptly.
Deputy Governor Magwanga Escapes Death After Gunmen Open Fire

Homa Bay DG Oyugi Magwanga [Photo/Courtesy]
The attack happened on Sunday, May 11, as Deputy Governor Magwanga was heading home. He revealed that he had received a tip-off that unknown individuals were trailing him. Acting quickly, Magwanga changed his route and entered his home compound from a different direction.
“I got information that I was being followed. It forced me to change my route to Gamba and come from the opposite direction,” Magwanga told the press on Monday morning.
Shortly after, two gunmen reportedly fired at his vehicle at the gate of his homestead. Luckily, Magwanga was not in the car at the time of the shooting. His security team, already on high alert, responded by engaging the attackers in a brief exchange of gunfire, causing the gunmen to flee.
Despite the close call, Magwanga remained defiant. “I will not be intimidated by people who are after my life. I will continue serving the people of Homa Bay without fear,” he said.
Heightened Security as Political Tensions Rise
The assassination attempt on Magwanga, coming just days after MP Charles Were’s killing, has raised alarms about political instability in Homa Bay and the country at large.
Local leaders are now calling for increased security for elected officials and a thorough review of intelligence operations to prevent similar attacks.
There are fears that if such incidents continue unchecked, they may discourage public service and lead to chaos in the region.
Residents are also being asked to assist police by reporting any suspicious activity. The county government has pledged to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure peace prevails.
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