Raila’s Aide: Oparanya’s Cabinet Nomination is Untenable Amid Corruption Allegations
Makau Mutua, an aide to Azimio leader Raila Odinga, has declared that the nomination of former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya to the Cabinet is no longer viable.
Mutua stated that Oparanya should step aside for the benefit of the nation and take responsibility for the situation.
He further emphasized that a qualified individual should be chosen to fill Oparanya’s position in the cabinet.
Oparanya has been proposed for the role of Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development.
Mutua commented, “Oparanya’s nomination is no longer viable. He should take responsibility and step aside. A deserving replacement from Kakamega County should be found.”
As a close ally of Raila Odinga, Oparanya served as the ODM deputy party leader until his recent resignation to accept the CS nomination.
Mutua’s statements come amid ongoing scrutiny from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission regarding Oparanya’s suitability for the Cabinet position due to corruption allegations.
In a letter dated July 29, addressed to the Clerk of the National Assembly, the EACC urged Parliament to reject Oparanya’s nomination based on alleged integrity concerns.
The EACC’s letter pointed out that Oparanya, the nominee for the Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development position, is facing allegations of corruption.
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The EACC revealed that it has sought preservation orders for Oparanya’s assets, alleging that he holds proceeds from corruption linked to a conflict of interest, with the case still pending in court.
The commission is pursuing the recovery of billions from Oparanya and several companies connected to Kakamega County officials, totaling Sh1,387,310,025.
In response, Oparanya expressed surprise that, despite receiving the DPP’s communication on July 8, 2024, the EACC proceeded to write to Parliament on July 29, 2024.
He labeled this as a manifestation of severe malice.
Oparanya’s legal team noted that, based on the DPP’s letter, the EACC should acknowledge that any allegations against the former governor have been resolved.
The lawyers informed Parliament that no ongoing investigation or charges against Oparanya warrant any complaints. They stressed that, in light of the DPP’s letter, the EACC should recognize that all claims of wrongdoing against Oparanya have been dismissed.
Raila’s Aide: Oparanya’s Cabinet Nomination is Untenable Amid Corruption Allegations
