Oparanya promises to support Khalwale in 2027 gubernatorial race

Former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya has promised to support Senator Boni Khalwale in the 2027 gubernatorial race.

This was after the ODM deputy party leader, Oparanya and Kakamega senator Khalwale of UDA buried their political differences and declared to work together in ensuring Khalwale becomes governor in 2027.

Speaking during a press briefing on Sunday January 14, Khalwale stated that he sought the blessing of Oparanya, as he launched his bid for the gubernatorial race in the 2027 general elections.

At the same time, Khalwale disclosed that he had informed his party leader President William Ruto about his intentions to vie for the governor position in 2027.

Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya. PHOTO/FILE

“The reason why we came here is because 2 months ago, I visited the President of Kenya and announced to him that in 2027 I will be running for Governor of Kakamega. Today was the day to inform the County Government that I will be running for Governor,” stated Khalwale.

“I deliberately chose (former) Governor Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya for this very important communication to this county because he was our first Governor. I have met the former Governor of Kakamega without prejudice to anybody, be it one who is currently in office or one who hopes to vie for Governor,” he added.

On the other hand, Oparanya said that he was able to perform his role as governor during his tenure because Senator Khalwale was keeping his administration in check for the 10 years.

“He put me on toes to deliver and because he put me on toes, I think I was able to deliver and that is what a Senator is supposed to do. In politics, there are no permanent enemies or permanent friends. What is important is interest,” Oparanya stated.

“We have decided to bury any differences that people thought we had so that we work together for the benefit of the people of Kakamega. I have told him to consult with his coalition and the President and I will also do the same to make sure that we are together come 2027,” he added.

This comes after Khalwale in 2017 attempted to unseat Oparanya unsuccessfully as Oparanya won a second term in office.

However in 2022, Khalwale attempted to run for the governor’s seat but UDA’s in-house agreement led to him vying for the Senate position, allowing Cleophas Malala to contest for the governor’s seat.

Fernandes Barasa of ODM succeeded Oparanya in 2022 after facing stiff competition from Malala of UDA.