Oparanya Fires Back: Ex-Governor Takes on EACC Over Eligibility Claims

Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has challenged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over claims that he is unfit to hold public office. The EACC had written to the National Assembly asserting that Oparanya should be disqualified from being appointed as a Cabinet Secretary, a move that has sparked a strong reaction from the seasoned politician.

Cooperatives Cabinet secretary nominee Wycliffe Oparanya

Oparanya, who has been nominated for the position of Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary, has now demanded that the EACC retract their statement, warning that failure to do so will result in legal action. Through his lawyer Danstan Omari, Oparanya issued a stern letter to EACC’s CEO, Twalib Mbarak, and other commissioners, urging them to cease what he describes as harassment and intimidation.

“There is a consensus that the High Court in Kakamega granted conservatory orders staying any arrest or prosecution against him based on information obtained by the EACC,” Omari stated, emphasizing that the legal battle is far from over.

This confrontation comes just a day after the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) reportedly informed the EACC that the evidence provided in the graft allegations against Oparanya was insufficient. The former governor’s latest move signals a firm stance as he seeks to clear his name and secure his appointment in President William Ruto's administration.