Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has watered down calls from some Western Kenya MPs urging him to run as President William Ruto’s deputy in the 2027 elections.
In an interview with TV47, Oparanya said he was content with his current Cabinet role and not pursuing political ambitions ahead of the next polls.
“I’m comfortable at the moment serving as Cabinet Secretary, but I can’t stop their wishes,” he said.
The ex-Kakamega governor added that even though his coalition lost in the most recent election, he is grateful for his current position.
“So far, I am comfortable and satisfied with what I have. I did not expect to be where I am at the moment. Our coalition lost elections, but we thank God,” he added.
He stressed that while he respected the views of leaders from his region, he was not moved by talk of a possible deputy presidential bid.
“It is their wish, and I’m not excited about it. 2027 is far, and we should focus on serving wananchi,” Oparanya said.
At least six Members of Parliament from Western Kenya have endorsed Oparanya for the Deputy President slot in the 2027 general election, vowing to rally the region behind his candidature.
The lawmakers, speaking in Khwisero Sub-County during the disbursement of Uwezo Funds, described Oparanya as a tested leader with a strong track record of development both as former Kakamega governor and now as a Cabinet Secretary. They issued what they called the “Khwisero Declaration,” a symbolic endorsement of Oparanya’s bid, saying the region must secure a strategic position in the next government through his leadership.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka urged Oparanya to declare his candidature officially, promising to support him with unwavering resolve. Also in attendance were Lurambi MP Titus Khamala, Navakholol MP Emmanuel Wangwe, Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali, and Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda.
‘I Don’t Fear Anything,’ Oparanya on Reinstatement of Crruption Charges
CS Oparanya recently suffered a setback when a court nullified an order by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to withdraw corruption charges against him while he was governor.
Reacting to the turn of events in Kakamega, Oparanya defended his record in office and accused his critics of masterminding a politically motivated agenda. He added that he had nothing to hide and is ready to go through any process.
“They should check all the development we did here all those years. If they have evidence that Oparanya has stolen, let them proceed. I don’t fear anything,” he said.
Oparanya described the renewed scrutiny as a political witch-hunt intended to weaken his influence in Kakamega County.
He said the focus should be on the development projects implemented during his two terms as governor rather than on unproven allegations.
“The people of Kakamega know what we achieved,” he said.
