On November 21, 2018, Migori Governor Okoth Obado moved against two senior county officials in a reshuffle that was widely read as a response to political disloyalty.
The officials affected were Trade Chief Executive Elizabeth Ochaye and Education Chief Officer Marwa Muniko. Ochaye was removed after she openly campaigned for Ochillo Ayacko of the Orange Democratic Movement in the Migori senator by-election.
Obado’s camp had backed Eddy Oketch of the Federal Party of Kenya after the governor broke ranks with the Orange party over how Ayacko was selected. The article did not explain why Muniko was dismissed.
Ochaye was replaced by Sheila Ghati, who had previously served in the public service docket. Elijah Odhiambo was named to act as county executive for public service management while continuing to oversee land and housing.
Roseline Otieno took over as public service chief officer, replacing Mary Midida, who was shifted to the education department in the same role. Samuel Ochieng’ became the acting chief officer for trade and kept his roads and public works portfolio.
Other changes saw Moses Chamwada take over as environment executive, while Joshua Ngwala remained the chief officer. Obado retained Christopher Odhiambo Rusana as county secretary and Samson Maginga as education executive.
Mrs Ghati Maroa remained the water and energy executive, with Edward Kabaka serving as chief officer. More changes were expected in the coming weeks as Obado assembled what was described as his “legacy team.” He was serving his second and final term.
Director of Communication Nicholas Anyuor announced the changes and said the governor was committed to improving services across all departments.
