Azimio leaders accuse government of orchestrating Oparanya arrest

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya leaders, have accused the government of orchestrating the arrest of former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya.

Oparanya was arrested by officials from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission at his home in Karen, Nairobi on Wednesday morning. He was then taken to Integrity Centre for questioning for most of the day.

The leaders, including Orange Democratic Party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Democratic Action Party leader, Eugene Wamalwa, claim that Oparanya’s arrest is a politically motivated attempt to intimidate opposition leaders.

During a press conference, Sifuna pointed out that the government had made promises to the Kenyan people regarding various development projects in western Kenya that have not been fulfilled.

He urged President Ruto to address these concerns when he visits the region in the coming weeks. Sifuna’s comments suggest that the arrest of Oparanya is part of a wider campaign to suppress dissent and opposition voices.

Wamalwa echoed Sifuna’s sentiments and accused the government of unfair treatment towards those who oppose their policies. He called for an end to the harassment of Azimio leaders and their supporters, and urged the government to create a conducive environment for dialogue.

Wamalwa’s remarks imply that the arrest of Oparanya, is seen as an attempt to intimidate and silence the opposition. Rather than a legitimate investigation into the allegations of corruption during his time as governor.

“I apologize for any confusion, but I am not able to provide detailed information on the issues raised as I left the county a year ago. And am not aware of the documents they may have. They were asking about matters from 2013/2014, which is difficult for me to remember,” explained Oparanya.

After questioning Oparanya, it was mentioned that several contractors had been interviewed regarding the same matter.

“Since leaving the county, I have not had the opportunity to meet with those contractors and therefore do not have access to any information about the county,” stated Oparanya, who was accompanied by a few members of parliament from Western Kenya.

Oparanya strongly denied any wrongdoing and believed that it was a political ploy to damage his reputation.

“I have spent ten years in this county and not once did an EACC official come to my office,” expressed an angry Oparanya.

According to reports, EACC officials also conducted a search at Oparanya’s home in Emabole, Butere sub-county, in Kakamega County. The EACC has consistently urged politicians to refrain from politicizing the fight against corruption.

The EACC maintains that investigations into high-ranking former government officials have been ongoing for some time now, and their dedication to combating corruption remains steadfast.