Within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), discussions are underway to position Cooperative Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as a possible running mate to President William Ruto in the 2027 elections. This strategy aims to curb the rising influence of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and his Linda Mwananchi movement in the Western region.

ODM insiders believe that offering the deputy presidency to a Western leader like Oparanya could strengthen Ruto’s ticket by securing a vital regional base. Over the weekend, National Assembly Minority Whip Junet Mohamed publicly endorsed Oparanya, stating, "UDA should produce the president while ODM will produce the DP, and we will present Wycliffe Oparanya."

Several ODM leaders from Western, including Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka, have voiced support for this move, emphasizing Oparanya's qualifications and regional appeal. However, ODM officials clarify that no final decision has been made on the running mate selection.

Oparanya himself has reaffirmed his commitment to ODM and a potential alliance with UDA, dismissing calls for ethnic division within the party and expressing respect for ODM’s founding principles and the late Raila Odinga.

Political Dynamics in Western Kenya

The push to elevate Oparanya occurs amid shifting political currents in Western Kenya, where Senator Sifuna's grassroots-driven Linda Mwananchi movement is gaining traction as a strong anti-Ruto force. Political analysts caution that naming Oparanya as running mate may not sufficiently counter Sifuna’s growing popularity, drawing parallels to similar political dynamics in 2002 involving Musalia Mudavadi.

The ODM’s earlier suggestion of former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho as a running mate has since shifted towards Oparanya, reflecting evolving party calculations as competition intensifies.

Implications for 2027 Elections

  • Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s position as Ruto’s running mate is increasingly uncertain following UDA’s by-election setbacks.
  • Western Kenya is emerging as a key battleground, with potential contenders including Oparanya and allies of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula vying for influence.
  • Ruto’s camp views a Western running mate as a strategic move to neutralize opposition momentum and broaden his electoral coalition.
  • For ODM, backing Oparanya aims to prevent Western’s political space from being dominated by Sifuna and the united opposition.

A recent Infotrak survey indicated Kindiki leads as the preferred running mate with 34% support, followed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at 11% and ODM leader Oburu Odinga at 5%.

This proposal could mark Oparanya’s return to the forefront of national succession politics, highlighting his continued significance within ODM and the broader political landscape.