Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has dismissed suggestions that he would quit the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to establish or join a political party focused on Western Kenya.
Speaking at a joint ODM-United Democratic Alliance (UDA) rally in Malava, Kakamega County, Oparanya reaffirmed his allegiance to ODM leader Raila Odinga, highlighting the pivotal role Raila has played in his political career.
Rejecting Calls for a Western Party
Oparanya revealed that some leaders had approached him to spearhead a Western Kenya party, citing concerns that ODM had become dominated by Luo interests. However, he firmly rejected this, reminding critics that leaders from Western Kenya were instrumental in founding ODM in 2005.
"Since I joined politics, everything I have achieved in government has come through Raila Odinga. I cannot betray the late Raila Odinga," Oparanya said.
He emphasized that after consultations with fellow leaders, they collectively decided to remain united within ODM to represent Western Kenya.
Political Realignments Ahead of 2027 Elections
The remarks come amid increasing cooperation between ODM and President William Ruto's UDA as they prepare for the 2027 General Election. The Malava rally featured key ODM figures including Secretary General Catherine Omanyo and Director of Elections and Campaigns Junet Mohamed, who encouraged residents to support the broad-based government.
Junet Mohamed indicated that ODM might negotiate for the deputy president's position in a potential coalition government with UDA after the next elections, highlighting Oparanya as a strong candidate due to his longstanding service and close ties with Raila Odinga.
Oparanya, a veteran ODM leader and former deputy party leader, currently serves in the Cabinet following the 2024 political agreement between ODM and Kenya Kwanza.
