Kenya: Wycliffe Oparanya Breaks Silence On Ruto’s Cabinet Nomination

Nairobi, Kenya — William Ruto’s Cooperatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary Nominee, Wycliffe Oparanya, broke his silence, clarifying claims of leaving the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.

Oparanya disclosed this on Saturday while speaking to journalists, emphasising that he, alongside other nominated ODM members, had not switched parties and would serve the government in their respective capacities if Parliament approves.

We are still ODM members but serving the government in our respective capacities,” he stated.

He stated that the nomination was part of Ruto’s plan for national unity, which sought to bring opposition politicians on board.

It does not mean that we have abandoned our party, ODM. We are still ODM members but serving the government in our respective capacity,” he added.

According to the former Kakamega Governor, Oparanya,

Kenya was a democratic nation, and anyone qualified and fit could serve in any position regardless of their political affiliations.

He reportedly declined to disclose further details on the position as he was yet to be vetted by Parliament, as it is scheduled to be held on Thursday, August 1st, and Sunday, August 4th, 2024.

Oparanya, notably, was among four other ODM members nominated for Cabinet Secretary positions, following which public scrutiny has ensued.

Others nominated are John Mbadi for Treasury, Opiyo Wandayi for Energy and Petroleum, and Ali Hassan Joho for Mining, despite his U.S.-alleged involvement in the illicit drug trade.

Meanwhile, all nominees will pass through the vetting process as announced by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula.

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Mayowa Durosinmi

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M. Durosinmi is a West Africa Weekly investigative reporter covering Politics, Human Rights, Health, and Security in West Africa and the Sahel Region

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