“No Rift Here”: CS Oparanya Denies Fallout With Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa

“No Rift Here”: CS Oparanya Denies Fallout With Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa

Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has strongly dismissed claims of a political fallout with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa. Speaking during an interview with TV47, Oparanya broke his silence, insisting that there is no bad blood between them.

“I Have No Business in Kakamega,” Oparanya Declares

Oparanya, who served as Kakamega Governor from 2013 to 2022, made it clear that his focus remains on national duties. He denied interfering in county politics or attempting to undermine Barasa’s leadership.

“What is there for me to be involved with in Kakamega?” Oparanya asked. “I have enough work as a Cabinet Secretary. I have nothing to do in Kakamega,” he added.

He emphasized that he respects Barasa’s role and only cares about development for the people.

“There is no fallout. We are not rivals,” he said. “As long as he is doing development for Kakamega, I have no issue,” he added.

ODM Chairmanship Sparks Political Storm

The tension reportedly began during the ODM chairmanship elections in Kakamega. Oparanya was accused of backing Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera to challenge Barasa, allegedly to weaken his influence.

The elections were marred by disagreements over voting methods. Nabwera’s camp walked out, leaving Barasa’s team to proceed and win.

“The process was flawed. We couldn’t agree on the voting modality,” said a delegate from Nabwera’s camp.

Since then, the dispute has spilled over to MPs and MCAs, who have traded accusations and insults.

Leaders Exchange Blame Over Party Division

Barasa’s allies accused Oparanya of dividing the party and urged him to focus on his Cabinet role. Meanwhile, Oparanya’s supporters claimed Barasa had disrespected his mentor.

“He should show gratitude. Oparanya paved the way for him,” said one MCA aligned with Oparanya.

Barasa, however, fired back, accusing Oparanya of undermining ODM leader Raila Odinga’s influence in Western Kenya.

“His position as CS came from Raila’s influence. He should support the party, not sabotage it,” Barasa said.

Public Calls for Unity and Focus on Development

As the political drama unfolds, residents of Kakamega are urging both leaders to put aside differences and prioritize service delivery.

“We want roads, water, and jobs—not political fights,” said a youth leader in Mumias.

With ODM’s grassroots support at stake, unity between Oparanya and Barasa could be crucial ahead of the next elections.

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“No Rift Here”: CS Oparanya Denies Fallout With Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa