Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has nominated former County Assembly Speaker Julius Odhiambo Gaya to the position of County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Industry, Tourism, Cooperative Development, and Marketing. This comes following the resignation of Hon. Polycarp Okombo, who vacated the CECM role after being elected as the new Speaker of the County Assembly.
In a press statement, Governor Wanga praised Gaya’s leadership experience, describing him as well-equipped to build on the progress made by his predecessor, Hon. Okombo. The nomination has been forwarded to the Homa Bay County Assembly for vetting, as required by law.
Political Reshuffle and Gaya’s Resignation
The nomination follows a turbulent period for Gaya, who resigned as Speaker of the County Assembly on November 12, 2024, ahead of an impending impeachment motion. Gaya’s resignation came after a majority of County Assembly members—53 out of 54—signed a petition calling for his removal. His departure marked the end of his tenure as Speaker, a position he held after supporting Governor Wanga’s election and abandoning his bid for a third term as Central Karachuonyo MCA.
In 2018, Gaya faced controversy when security guards barred him from accessing the assembly following allegations of corruption and misconduct. More recently, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has investigated his academic qualifications.
Okombo Sworn in as Assembly Speaker
Hon. Polycarp Okombo, Gaya’s successor as Speaker, was officially sworn in on November 21, 2024, after securing 46 votes in a highly contested election. Okombo’s victory—securing more than the required two-thirds majority—comes after a campaign that featured four candidates.
In his first address as Speaker, Okombo emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in tackling the challenges facing the county. “Our strength lies in our unity,” he said, pledging to foster a collaborative environment where all voices are heard. He also called on members to work towards making Homa Bay a model of good governance and progress.
What’s Next for Gaya?
If Gaya’s nomination for CECM Trade is confirmed by the County Assembly, he will inherit the position left vacant by Okombo’s resignation. Gaya’s leadership will be crucial in driving economic initiatives in trade, tourism, and industry, areas vital to the county’s development.
As Homa Bay navigates this political reshuffle, all eyes will be on the County Assembly to see whether Gaya’s nomination is approved and whether his controversial past will affect his future leadership.
