Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has dismissed growing calls by some Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders endorsing. him as President Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 General Election, describing the debate as premature.
Speaking during an interview on KBC Channel 1 on Monday, Oparanya said he was surprised by the endorsements, maintaining that ODM has not formally discussed the Deputy President’s position.
“I have not thought about it. That office already has someone I respect who is doing a very good job. I think it is premature to talk about it,” Oparanya said.
RELATED NEWS:
- ODM Endorses Oparanya for Deputy President as 2027 Succession Battle Intensifies
- Wandayi Challenges Opposition to Name 2027 Candidate, Declares Support for Ruto
The former Kakamega Governor acknowledged that those backing his candidacy believe ODM should secure a senior position if the party formalises its political cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), citing the party’s influence in Nyanza, Western Kenya, Nairobi and the Coast region.
ODM and UDA Begin Coalition Talks
Oparanya revealed that both ODM and UDA have appointed five representatives each to begin negotiations on a possible cooperation framework ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He, however, stressed that the immediate priority for leaders serving in the broad-based government is ensuring President Ruto secures a second term.
“At the moment, as members of the broad-based government, our focus is to work very hard to ensure the President is re-elected. If he is not re-elected, then the issue of DP will not arise,” he said.
Running Mate Debate Intensifies
Oparanya’s remarks come amid increasing political speculation over the future of the broad-based political arrangement between ODM and UDA, with the DP’s position emerging as one of the key issues expected to feature in future coalition negotiations.
Oparanya has recently received public backing from senior ODM leaders, including Secretary General Catherine Omanyo and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed.
The two leaders described Oparanya as one of ODM’s most experienced and loyal members, citing his long association with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his political influence in Western Kenya.
Although endorsements have continued to gather momentum, Oparanya insisted the matter has not been formally discussed within ODM and reiterated that the focus remains on governance and implementing the broad-based government’s agenda.
