Western Youth Blast Homabay Governor Over Alleged Interference in PS Omolo’s Affairs

By Victor Ngecho

Youth leaders from Western Kenya have expressed outrage at Homabay Governor Gladys Nyasuna Wanga, accusing her of meddling in the affairs of Hon. Raymond Omolo, Principal  Secretary in the Ministry of Interior and Coordination.

The Western Youth Caucus, representing Kakamega, Bungoma, and Vihiga counties, said Governor Wanga’s attacks on Omolo, who hails from Homabay, were politically motivated. The controversy followed Omolo’s support for independent candidate Philip Aroko in the recent Homabay by-election.

Abdul Aziz Tabuche, a youth leader from Mumias, described Omolo as “one of the most hardworking PS in President William Ruto’s administration,” adding that he has consistently championed youth empowerment initiatives across the country. “He has opened multiple offices to bring services closer to ordinary citizens. We will not allow him to be belittled by the outgoing governor,” Tabuche said.

Eugene Wekesa, a youth leader from Bungoma, said the youth would not tolerate interference in Omolo’s work. “Omolo is a key ally of the President. Wanga should focus on her duties as governor and respect his role,” he noted.

Ali Adams, another youth leader from Mumias, echoed the sentiment, warning that Omolo commands strong support among the youth. “Many youths have benefited from his initiatives, including job placements and housing support for widows. The Governor must tread carefully,” Adams said.

The tension comes in the wake of the Homabay by-election, where Boydd Were, son of the late MP Ongondo Were, was declared winner. Following the polls, Governor Wanga reshuffled her cabinet, dropping Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga from the agriculture docket. Magwanga had also supported independent candidate Philip Aroko, who finished second.

The Western Youth Caucus called on Governor Wanga to respect Hon. Omolo’s position and avoid unnecessary political confrontations.