Governor Barasa Demands Ruto Sack CS Oparanya Over Political Interference

Governor Barasa Demands Ruto Sack CS Oparanya Over Political Interference

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has issued a bold demand to President William Ruto. He wants Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya removed from office for allegedly meddling in local and party politics.

Speaking during a church service on Sunday, September 14, Barasa didn’t hold back.

“This CS thinks that every day he will be coming here to disturb us,” Barasa declared. “We are tired now, and we want to urge the president that he should remove this burden.”

Accusations of Political Disruption

Barasa accused Oparanya of using Members of Parliament to express dissatisfaction with his cabinet role. He insisted that the CS should focus on national service, not political games.

“If he fails to work, there is no need to use a seat meant to unite us to destroy us,” Barasa added.

He further warned that Oparanya’s actions were embarrassing and disruptive.

“You cannot be coming here and interfering with our local politics because that is embarrassing,” he said. “The president must call CS Oparanya to order.”

Oparanya Fires Back

Just a day earlier, on Saturday, September 13, CS Oparanya addressed the growing tension. He criticized the ongoing ODM leadership wrangles in Kakamega County.

“These internal fights are tarnishing the party’s reputation,” Oparanya said.

He warned that if the divisions persist, ODM’s strength ahead of the 2027 elections could be compromised.

“If divisive internal politics continue, it threatens our fitness for the next elections,” he cautioned.

A Cabinet Role Under Scrutiny

Oparanya was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises on August 8, 2024. His appointment followed a cabinet reshuffle triggered by anti-government protests.

Since then, his presence in Kakamega has sparked controversy. Local leaders claim he’s more focused on political influence than his official duties.

Barasa’s call for his dismissal has intensified pressure on both the president and ODM leader Raila Odinga to intervene.

A Party at Crossroads

The clash between Barasa and Oparanya reveals deeper cracks within ODM’s county leadership. As the 2027 elections approach, unity appears fragile.

While Barasa demands discipline, Oparanya insists on reform. Both leaders claim to defend ODM’s future—but their feud may weaken it.

Kenyans now watch closely. Will Raila and Ruto act? Or will ODM’s internal battles continue to spill into public view?

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Governor Barasa Demands Ruto Sack CS Oparanya Over Political Interference