Trick ODM Used to Save Oparanya After Vetting Committee Almost Rejected His CS Nomination
In a dramatic turn of events, former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya’s nomination to the Cabinet was nearly nullified by a faction of the National Assembly’s Committee on Appointments.
The Daily Nation reported that Oparanya faced significant opposition from the Kenya Kwanza side during his vetting process due to ongoing investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
The EACC had formally written to the National Assembly, urging them to block Oparanya’s nomination based on active corruption cases against him. This move by the anti-graft body placed Oparanya’s future in the Cabinet in jeopardy, leading to intense deliberations within the committee.
The vetting, described as grueling, saw the Kenya Kwanza representatives adamant about rejecting Oparanya’s nomination.
However, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) orchestrated a strategic intervention that turned the tides in favor of the former governor.
Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, a prominent member of the vetting team and an ODM stalwart, played a pivotal role in this high-stakes negotiation.
According to a source within the committee who spoke to the Nation on condition of anonymity, Junet made a bold and unequivocal declaration.
“Junet sprang up and said either the committee includes Oparanya among the nominees recommended for approval or ODM turns down the CS slots it was allocated,” the committee member disclosed. This ultimatum sent ripples through the committee, placing immense pressure on the decision-makers.
The threat posed by ODM was not taken lightly. The possibility of the influential party declining its Cabinet slots could have significant political repercussions, potentially destabilizing the delicate balance within the coalition government.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the committee members had to reconsider their stance.
In the end, the committee acquiesced to ODM’s demands, ensuring that Oparanya’s nomination was approved.
This incident highlights the intricate power dynamics at play within Kenya’s political landscape and the lengths to which parties will go to secure their interests.
Oparanya’s approval marks a significant victory for ODM, demonstrating the party’s leverage and negotiation prowess.
It also sets a precedent for future nominations, where strategic political maneuvers may overshadow merit and integrity concerns.
As Oparanya prepares to assume his Cabinet position, the scrutiny from both supporters and critics will undoubtedly continue.
The events surrounding his nomination serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between politics and governance in Kenya.
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Trick ODM Used to Save Oparanya After Vetting Committee Almost Rejected His CS Nomination
