Published on: May 12, 2025 — 03:00 EAT
Homa Bay Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga survives a suspected assassination attempt after gunmen ambush his home. Security agencies launch investigation into the attack.
HOMA BAY, Kenya — Tension is rising in Homa Bay County following a brazen gun attack on Deputy Governor Joseph Oyugi Magwanga, in what authorities suspect was an assassination attempt. The incident, which occurred late Sunday night, has raised fresh concerns about the safety of political leaders in the region, especially in the wake of recent violent occurrences.
According to one of the Deputy Governor’s security personnel, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, the attack happened around 9:00 PM near Magwanga’s rural home in Kabuor village. At the time, Magwanga was reportedly on his way back from a private engagement, unaware that armed assailants were lying in wait.
The security officer recounted that the Deputy Governor’s family first noticed suspicious movements around the compound by unidentified individuals. “They called the DG and warned him of possible danger. He changed vehicles and took a different route to his residence,” the officer said.
Moments after a vehicle resembling the Deputy Governor’s arrived at the gate, gunmen emerged and opened fire. A swift response from his security team led to a fierce exchange of gunfire, ultimately forcing the attackers to flee the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Speaking to the press outside his residence on Monday morning, Magwanga confirmed the incident and expressed deep concern over his safety. “I have been receiving threats to my life, but I didn’t expect they would materialize this soon. Last night’s attack was a clear attempt to eliminate me,” he said.
The Deputy Governor called on national security agencies to move quickly to investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice. “This is not just about me—this is a threat to the stability of our county. I urge the government to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves,” he emphasized.
Magwanga also stated that he has since increased his personal security and is consulting with county and national authorities on how to ensure continued safety for both himself and other county leaders.
The assassination attempt comes just two days after the emotional burial of Kasipul MP Charles Were, who died under unclear circumstances last month. The region has witnessed increasing political tension and insecurity, with this being the third reported attack on Homa Bay leaders in the past two months.
In March, another county official survived a similar attack along the Katito-Kendu Bay Road. Last month, a local MCA’s vehicle was ambushed in Rangwe Constituency. These incidents have left residents and local leaders shaken, with many calling for enhanced security presence and intelligence gathering in the area.
Local leaders, including Senator Moses Kajwang and Woman Representative Gladys Wanga, have condemned the attack on Magwanga and called for calm among residents. “We must not allow criminal elements to derail the development and unity we are working hard to achieve in Homa Bay,” said Wanga in a statement released Monday afternoon.
As investigations continue, security experts have urged politicians in the region to avoid predictable routines and to stay alert. Meanwhile, police say they have launched a manhunt for the gunmen and are analyzing CCTV footage and mobile communications to trace the suspects’ movements.
The attempted assassination has triggered national concern, with many Kenyans on social media expressing outrage and demanding action to curb the rising insecurity targeting elected leaders.
