Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has publicly opposed the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) campaign to have Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya serve as President William Ruto’s deputy president candidate in the 2027 general election.
Speaking during the inauguration of Shianda Level IV Hospital in Mumias East on August 3, Barasa criticized Oparanya’s suitability for the position, highlighting his limited political influence within the Luhya community and accusing him of causing divisions in Kakamega County.
Barasa’s stance on Oparanya’s candidacy:
- Described Oparanya as lacking the capacity to deputize President Ruto effectively.
- Accused him of failing to unite Kakamega and weakening ODM’s cohesion locally.
- Warned that endorsing Oparanya could jeopardize Ruto’s re-election prospects among Luhya voters.
Despite his criticism of Oparanya, Barasa affirmed the Luhya community’s overall support for President Ruto’s broad-based government and his re-election bid. He also urged locals to back his own re-election campaign under the ODM banner, noting progress in development projects since his 2022 election.
Context on ODM and UDA alliance talks:
ODM has indicated a desire to share power evenly with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in the 2027 elections, including pushing for the deputy president slot. Oparanya is among the names ODM is considering for the position if an agreement is reached.
Barasa, who also chairs ODM’s Kakamega branch, remains firm that other Luhya leaders, excluding Oparanya, should be considered for the deputy president role.
