Oparanya post in Cabinet will not affect us, says Governor
By dennis-lumiti, August 13, 2024
The appointment of the immediate former ODM Deputy Leader Wycliffe Oparanya as a Cabinet Secretary will not affect the party’s strength in Kakamega county, Governor Fernandes Barasa has said.
Barasa, who is the party’s County Chairman, also dismissed claims that ODM would merge with UDA.
He said the Orange party would continue to strengthen its activities in Kakamega and other parts of the Western region despite its senior national officials joining the national government.
“What happened was that President William Ruto agreed to form a government of national unity and only ODM came handy as the game-changer. But the move will not harm us in any way,” he added.
Barasa said he was committed to emboldening the party’s presence in the county and entire Western region.
He said it would be political suicide for the country if ODM accepted to be swallowed by UDA.
“ODM is the political conscience of this country and we can never allow it collapse,” he added.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the Orange party, pledging to strengthen its influence in the region.
Speaking at Lutonyi Church of God in Lurambi constituency on Sunday, Barasa emphasized his dedication to ensuring that the party remains relevant and strong.
He wished those who had joined the cabinet success but advised them to remain ambassadors of the Orange party. At the same time, the county chief urged MPs and other sugar stakeholders to oppose the directive by the Agricultural Food Authority instructing millers to reduce the sugarcane tonnage price from Sh5,125 to Sh4,950.