The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has cleared Danish Otieno Onyango for appointment as the Deputy Governor of Homa Bay County.
In a gazette notice issued on Friday, August 7, 2026, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said Onyango’s clearance followed a High Court ruling delivered on July 30, which dismissed a petition challenging his nomination.
Ethekon said the nominee had met the constitutional and legal requirements for the position.
“...the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission declares that the person listed in the Schedule hereunder meets the qualifications and requirements of the Constitution and the Elections Act, 2011 to be appointed as the Deputy County Governor Homa Bay County," reads a section of the notice.
Governor Gladys Wanga nominated Onyango on March 17, 2026, following the resignation of her deputy, Oyugi Magwanga, who cited irreconcilable differences with the governor.
"I leave office with my conscience clear and my commitment to the people of Homa Bay County unwavering. My resolve to advocate for integrity and proper management of public resources and the fulfilment of our county remains stronger than ever," Magwanga said on February 26, 2026.
The ex-DG has also expressed his readiness to contest for the gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Elections, where he is set to face the incumbent, Gladys Wanga.
At the time, Onyango was serving as the County Executive Committee Member for Roads and Public Works.
His nomination was challenged in court by Michael Kojo Otieno and Evance Otieno Oloo, who alleged that the county had failed to meet the two-thirds gender requirement and comply with the Public Appointments (County Assemblies Approval) Act, 2017.
However, Justice Nzioki Makau dismissed the petition, ruling that the petitioners had failed to demonstrate any violation of the law.
“I hereby nominate Mr Danish Otieno Onyango to serve as the Deputy Governor of Homa Bay County, subject to approval by the County Assembly,” Wanga said in her March 17 statement.