Oparanya dismisses calls by Western MPs to deputise Ruto in 2027
Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has brushed off calls by a section of Western Members of Parliament (MPs) urging him to deputise President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
This also comes as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, Raila Odinga, maintains the party will field its candidate to contest for the country’s top office.
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However, it is unclear whether the candidate will vie against President William Ruto or will deputise him under the broad-based umbrella.
In a late-night interview on a local TV station on Monday, September 22, 2025, Oparanya said he was content with his current role in government and not focused on the 2027 campaign politics.
“I am comfortable at the moment serving as Cabinet Secretary, but I cannot stop their wishes,” he said.
The former Kakamega County governor noted that despite his coalition losing the last election, he was grateful for the position he holds.
“So far, I am comfortable and satisfied with what I have. I did not expect to be where I am at the moment. Our coalition lost elections, but we thank God,” he said.
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Oparanya maintained that while he acknowledged the views of leaders from the region, he was not excited by the talk of a possible deputy presidential role; instead, his focus is on service to the people of Kenya.
“It is their wish, and I’m not excited about it. 2027 is far, and we should focus on serving wananchi,” the CS said.
Khwisero declaration
About six MPs from Western Kenya have endorsed Oparanya for the Deputy President position in the 2027 top seat contest. The lawmakers have vowed to rally the region behind his candidature should ODM present him with the flagbearer opportunity.
Speaking in Khwisero Sub-County during the disbursement of Uwezo Funds, the lawmakers had termed Oparanya as a proven leader, citing his strong development record as former Kakamega Governor and his current role in government.
The leaders made the Khwisero Declaration, a symbolic endorsement of Oparanya’s bid, stating that the region must be strategically positioned in the next government through his leadership.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka called on Oparanya to officially declare his candidature, assuring him of unwavering support.
The others were Lurambi MP Titus Khamala, Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani) and Elsie Muhanda (Kakamega Woman Representative), who echoed the sentiments, emphasising that Western Kenya must unite politically to negotiate for power in the next government.
