CS Oparanya Throws Weight Behind Elsie Muhanda for Kakamega Governor

Co‑operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has publicly endorsed Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda as his preferred candidate to succeed Governor Fernandes Barasa in the 2027 Kakamega gubernatorial race. Speaking at a rally in Shikuyu, Ikolomani, Oparanya recalled his long association with Muhanda and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the county.
Oparanya painted Muhanda as a dependable and experienced leader who has served Kakamega under his previous administrations. He noted that she first came to his attention through longtime ally MP Bernard Shinali, eventually serving under him as a commissioner on the Poverty Eradication Committee. Later, during his term as governor, Oparanya appointed her as CEC for Health and then shifted her to Trade when she pursued parliament, a move that he believes cultivated her county‑wide appeal. He didn’t hold back in criticizing Governor Barasa, questioning the basis of his popularity and highlighting what he described as leadership failures.
Not everyone is on board, however. Senator Boni Khalwale, who is himself angling for the governor’s office, denounced Oparanya’s intervention, accusing him of trying to impose Muhanda as a handpicked successor. Despite the pushback, Muhanda expressed gratitude for the endorsement, saying it energizes her campaign as she prepares for a serious run at the county’s top seat.
Looking ahead, Oparanya’s backing could mark a turning point in the Kakamega gubernatorial race. His support may sway key party structures and grassroots networks in Muhanda’s favour, but her success will depend on how well she navigates mounting opposition from rivals like Khalwale and Barasa. The next few months will be critical as alliances solidify and campaign strategies sharpen.