Oparanya Endorses Khalwale to Succeed ODM’s Barasa After Ending Rivalry
Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya and the county’s Senator Boni Khalwale have set aside their political differences and reconciled, revealing Senator Khalwale’s aspirations for the gubernatorial position in 2027.
In a united front, they made this announcement during a joint press conference on Sunday, with the Senator expressing his intention to run for governor and seeking the blessings of the ex-governor.
Oparanya’s endorsement marks the conclusion of a longstanding political feud between the two leaders, spanning over a decade.
Despite their affiliations with opposing political parties, with Khalwale aligned with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Oparanya being a member of the opposition’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), they have now joined forces in collaboration.
Khalwale disclosed that his gubernatorial ambitions have received support from President William Ruto, the leader of his party, further solidifying their united front.
“The reason why we came here is because 2 months ago, I visited the President of Kenya and announced to him that in 2027 I will be running for Governor of Kakamega. Today was the day to inform the County Government that I will be running for Governor,” he told the media.
“I deliberately chose (former) Governor Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya for this very important communication to this county because he was our first Governor. I have met the former Governor of Kakamega without prejudice to anybody be it one who is currently in office or one who hopes to vie for Governor.”
Conversely, Oparanya commended the Senator for maintaining a vigilant administration during the ten years that Oparanya led the helm.
“He put me on toes to deliver and because he put me on toes, I think I was able to deliver and that is what a Senator is supposed to do. In politics, there are no permanent enemies or permanent friends. What is important is interest,” he stated.
“We have decided to bury any differences that people thought we had so that we work together for the benefit of the people of Kakamega. I have told him to consult with his coalition and the President and I will also do the same to make sure that we are together come 2027.”
The political dynamics between the two leaders were characterized by stark differences, particularly during Oparanya’s initial term when Khalwale held the position of Senator.
In 2017, Khalwale made an unsuccessful attempt to oust Oparanya from office, allowing the latter to secure a second term.
In the 2022 elections, Khalwale aimed for the same gubernatorial seat, but an internal arrangement within UDA resulted in him contesting for a Senate position, while Cleophas Malala assumed the role of gubernatorial candidate.
Despite their party colleague Fernandes Barasa winning the race, he is now under scrutiny for alleged close ties with the President.
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Oparanya Endorses Khalwale to Succeed ODM’s Barasa After Ending Rivalry
