Former Kasipul MP and former Homa Bay DG Oyugi Magwanga during a meeting with clerics at Bongu village in Ndhiwa constituency/Robert Omollo
Religious leaders in Homa Bay should be at the forefront of sensitising residents to elect the right leaders, former Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga has said.
Magwanga argued that clerics, by virtue of the positions they hold in society, can use their places of worship to teach good moral values and guide youths to elect good leaders.
He said many youths have been misguided by politicians and drawn into goonism, causing chaos during public rallies.
Former Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga speaks during a meeting with clerics at Bongu village in Ndhiwa constituency/Robert Omollo
Magwanga said goonism is taking centre stage in Homa Bay and that clerics need to step forward and speak about it in their areas of worship.
“It is high time religious leaders came out and talked about the misuse of youths in Homa Bay. Bad politicians use them to cause chaos so that they can continue being in power,” Magwanga said.
Speaking during a meeting with clerics drawn from seven wards at Bongu village in Ndhiwa Constituency, the former deputy governor linked leaders who use goons to cause chaos to a lack of a clear agenda.
He reiterated his intention to unseat the current governor, Gladys Wanga, in the 2027 General Election.
Magwanga claimed that he resigned as deputy governor after realising there was misuse of public resources.
He alleged that his former boss, Governor Wanga, had deviated from their pre-election agenda.
“My working relationship with Governor Gladys Wanga was no longer tenable. I stepped aside because I didn't want to taint my image and reputation,” he said.
More than 150 clerics and Magwanga were hosted by Ndhiwa Bishops and Pastors Accord chairman Samuel Orieny.
Magwanga said county religious leaders have a duty, through teaching, to correct the ills bedevilling society.
Before becoming deputy governor, Magwanga served as a Member of Parliament for two terms. He was among the best-rated MPs in terms of performance during his tenure.
According to Magwanga, he wants Homa Bay religious leaders to sensitise youths so they can make informed decisions during elections.
He claimed that the current Homa Bay county government has underperformed in delivering on the election pledges it made to residents.
“Let nobody use the gender card to ask for favour during elections. Vote for someone with a track record because that is what will develop you,” the former deputy governor said.
Orieny called for unity among elected leaders in Homa Bay as they prepare for the 2027 elections.
The clerics also urged the county government to resolve issues surrounding the Social Health Authority (SHA) that have prevented residents from accessing medication in some health facilities.
Orieny called for an end to the misuse of youths by politicians to disrupt public functions.
“Homa Bay people can't get better services if elected leaders continue to squabble. As clergy, we've agreed to educate people on the significance of voting for leaders without integrity issues,” Orieny said.
