CS Oparanya: I’m Ready to Leave ODM

Co-operatives and MSMEs Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has announced that he is ready to leave ODM if it will help unite Western Kenya politically. The CS said the move is not about personal gain but about strengthening the voice of the Luhya community.

Speaking during the funeral of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Oparanya said he is willing to step aside from ODM to support the creation of a single political front for Western leaders.

“Every time I met Jirongo, he talked about Luhya unity. One day I asked him, am I the problem because I am in ODM? I told him, if I am the problem, I am ready to leave ODM as deputy party leader and let us form one party where all our people can come together,” CS Oparanya said.

Oparanya recalled that Jirongo, who passed away in a road accident on the Nakuru–Naivasha highway, always pushed for cohesion and better representation for Western Kenya.

“Now we have two or three Luhya leaders who are party heads. Jirongo himself was a party leader. Past disagreements and personal rivalries should not block unity. I want to make it clear—I am ready to leave ODM if it means bringing us together. We have a sleeping giant in this country if we unite,” he said.

The CS stressed that Luhya leaders must put the community’s interests above personal ambitions. He urged politicians to set aside differences and work for regional development.

Political Tensions in ODM

Oparanya’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions within ODM, particularly with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa. Earlier this year, Oparanya accused Barasa of forwarding his files to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in a move he said aimed to tarnish his reputation.

Barasa has also criticised Oparanya for allegedly using MPs to push personal interests instead of focusing on uniting Kakamega and Western Kenya leaders.

“He was given a cabinet position to unite Kakamega, but now he uses MPs to disrupt ODM. I urge President Ruto to call him to order,” Barasa said.

Despite the tensions, Oparanya defended his record as Kakamega governor, saying he worked within the law and focused on community development.

The CS’s declaration signals a possible reshuffle in Western Kenya politics, with unity and regional strength at the centre of his message.

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