A section of youth leaders drawn from all eight constituencies and the 40 electoral wards in Homa Bay County have declared their support for a growing political alliance between former Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga and businessman Johnson Oduk Oginga, terming it a “necessary shift” ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a youth consultative forum attended by more than 250 participants, the group endorsed the emerging cooperation between the two leaders, saying it offers a viable alternative to the current county leadership under Governor Gladys Wanga.
The youths argued that the county has, for years, grappled with persistent socio-economic challenges, adding that a new leadership approach anchored on accountability, development, and inclusivity is urgently needed.
They further expressed strong backing for Mr. Oduk as a suitable running mate to Mr. Magwanga, citing his business background, grassroots appeal, and perceived capacity to mobilize resources and opportunities for young people.
“We are not driven by political excitement or empty rhetoric. We want leadership that understands the realities on the ground—jobs, healthcare, roads, and dignity for our people,” said one of the youth representatives.
The youths outlined a range of concerns they say have fueled their call for change and these includes unemployment where majority of young people in the county remain jobless, with limited access to sustainable income opportunities despite promises of empowerment programs.
They also decried a weak local economy where
Small-scale businesses and traders face inadequate support, poor infrastructure, and limited access to credit.
Public health facilities in the county also continue to struggle with shortages of essential drugs, understaffing, and poor service delivery.
“The county has minimal investment in industries that could absorb labor and stimulate economic growth and despite proximity to Lake Victoria, fishermen face declining yields, lack of modern equipment, and exploitation by middlemen.
The youths raised concerns over transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
Young people say they are often sidelined in decision-making processes and leadership structures.
The youth leaders called on like-minded stakeholders, community leaders, and political actors to rally behind what they described as a “progressive and transformative agenda” aimed at revitalizing Homa Bay County.
They emphasized that their support is issue-based and not driven by personality politics, urging leaders to focus on tangible solutions that address the real needs of residents.
As the 2027 race gradually takes shape, the Magwanga–Oduk alliance appears to be gaining traction among sections of the electorate, particularly the youth—setting the stage for a potentially competitive political contest in the lakeside county.
