By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with TONY WAFULA
Published on 2024-01-18 18:00:00
Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has rejected National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s presidential aspirations, claiming that Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya party lacks the strength to produce a president. Oparanya stated, “Truth be told, a party with six MPs cannot produce the president. Stop telling us that Ford Kenya can make Wetang’ula president. It is a big lie.” Oparanya made these comments during an ODM membership recruitment drive in Bungoma on Wednesday.
As the ODM deputy party leader, Oparanya emphasized the need for unity within the Luhya nation in order to produce the head of state. Meanwhile, Wetang’ula urged residents of Western Kenya to acquire ID cards so they can support his presidential bid when the timing is right, asserting, “The presidency is rotational. We shall not allow the presidency to skip us. From Rift Valley, it should cross over to Western.”
In addition, Wetang’ula, the leader of Ford Kenya, highlighted his extensive leadership experience and declared his readiness to lead the country. However, Oparanya’s rejection of Wetang’ula’s presidential ambitions underscores the division within the Luhya community and the challenges facing the region in producing a presidential candidate with broad support.
Oparanya’s dismissal of Wetang’ula’s prospects reflects the ongoing political dynamics in Kenya, particularly within the Luhya community. The debate over which leader is best suited to represent the community on the national stage underscores the complexities of Kenyan politics, where regional and ethnic dynamics often play a significant role in shaping national leadership.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the statements from Oparanya and Wetang’ula shed light on the competing interests and ambitions within the Kenyan political sphere, particularly as various leaders seek to position themselves for the next presidential election. The rift between Oparanya and Wetang’ula underscores the challenges of coalition-building and unity within the Luhya community as it seeks to assert its political influence on the national stage.
Read the original article on The Star
