Speaking during an interview on the Ainea Nabwera talk show on May 3, 2026, Oparanya made it clear that he has no intention of returning to county politics, where he previously served as Kakamega governor for two terms.
He emphasized that his current role in government is his priority and that he intends to continue serving at the national stage.
“Those saying I want to be senator are entitled to their opinion, but I have no such plans. I am done with county politics and will remain in national government,” Oparanya stated, shutting down ongoing rumours about his next political move.
The former governor, who served Kakamega County for a decade, explained that his decision to shift focus to national leadership was deliberate. He noted that while he no longer seeks elective office at the county level, he still retains an interest in local affairs as a resident and voter.
Oparanya also addressed claims of a fallout between him and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, dismissing reports of any political rivalry. He clarified that his occasional criticism of the county government should not be interpreted as conflict but rather as part of constructive engagement.
“I have no differences with Governor Barasa because I am not interested in the governorship. My role is simply to point out areas that may need improvement,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing political activity in the Western Kenya region, where leaders are already positioning themselves ahead of the next election cycle. Recently, a section of ODM leaders from Kakamega, led by Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda, publicly endorsed Oparanya for the deputy president position in 2027.
While welcoming the show of support, Oparanya maintained that he is currently focused on delivering his mandate as a cabinet secretary. He reiterated that discussions about future political ambitions are premature at this stage.
At the same time, Muhanda and other regional leaders have called for Oparanya’s inclusion in ongoing and anticipated talks between the United Democratic Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement.
“Those saying I want to be senator are entitled to their opinion, but I have no such plans. I am done with county politics and will remain in national government,” Oparanya stated, shutting down ongoing rumours about his next political move.
The former governor, who served Kakamega County for a decade, explained that his decision to shift focus to national leadership was deliberate. He noted that while he no longer seeks elective office at the county level, he still retains an interest in local affairs as a resident and voter.
Oparanya also addressed claims of a fallout between him and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, dismissing reports of any political rivalry. He clarified that his occasional criticism of the county government should not be interpreted as conflict but rather as part of constructive engagement.
“I have no differences with Governor Barasa because I am not interested in the governorship. My role is simply to point out areas that may need improvement,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing political activity in the Western Kenya region, where leaders are already positioning themselves ahead of the next election cycle. Recently, a section of ODM leaders from Kakamega, led by Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda, publicly endorsed Oparanya for the deputy president position in 2027.
While welcoming the show of support, Oparanya maintained that he is currently focused on delivering his mandate as a cabinet secretary. He reiterated that discussions about future political ambitions are premature at this stage.
At the same time, Muhanda and other regional leaders have called for Oparanya’s inclusion in ongoing and anticipated talks between the United Democratic Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement.
They argue that his senior position in government and influence in the region make him a key stakeholder in such negotiations.
The leaders warned that failure to involve him in the discussions could alienate Kakamega leaders from the broader party strategy, signaling potential internal tensions within ODM.
The leaders warned that failure to involve him in the discussions could alienate Kakamega leaders from the broader party strategy, signaling potential internal tensions within ODM.
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