Features & Sacco Leadership

Who is Wycliffe Oparanya? meet new Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs

Wycliffe Oparanya

Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, a prominent Kenyan political figure, has been a notable force in Western Kenya’s political scene. With a career spanning over two decades, he has held significant roles including serving as the Governor of Kakamega County from 2013 to 2022 and leading the Council of Governors from 2018 to 2021. Recently, President William Ruto nominated Oparanya for the position of Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs, a role that will see him succeed Simon Kiprono Chelugui, pending confirmation.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1956 in Butere, Kakamega County, Wycliffe Oparanya’s educational journey began at Mabole Primary School, followed by Butere Boys High School for his O-levels. He then pursued his A-levels at Kisii High School. Oparanya’s higher education took him to the University of Nairobi, where he first earned a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting (1977-1980) and later a Master of Business Administration in Finance (1999-2000).

Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya

Professional Career

Oparanya’s career in accounting and finance is distinguished by over 23 years of experience. He began his professional journey at Earnest & Young as a Senior Audit Manager from 1980 to 1995. He then moved to Kenya Aerotech Co. Limited, where he served as Secretary to the Board and later as Group Finance Controller. His expertise in finance laid a solid foundation for his subsequent political career.

Political Debut and Rise

Wycliffe Oparanya made his political debut in 2002, winning the Butere Parliamentary seat. He retained this seat in 2007 under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party and was appointed Minister of State for Planning, National Development, and Vision 2030 in the grand-coalition government. Following the 2010 promulgation of Kenya’s new constitution, Oparanya successfully contested and won the governorship of Kakamega County with ODM. He defended his seat in 2017 and led the Council of Governors from 2018 to 2021. He also serves as one of the deputy party leaders for Raila Odinga’s ODM, alongside former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho. Additionally, Oparanya chairs the National Coalition Executive Council and leads the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition party, which is headed by Raila Odinga.

Family Life

Oparanya is married to Carolyn and Priscilla Oparanya, and together they have three children. Besides his two wives, he is also known to be in a relationship with Mary Biketi. In interviews, Oparanya has openly discussed his approach to handling marital issues and his transparent stance on his relationship with Biketi.

Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya

Controversies

Despite his achievements, Oparanya’s career has been marred by controversy. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) reported in February 2024 that millions of public funds were misappropriated, with Oparanya among the officials under investigation. The report alleged that he received kickbacks from six companies awarded contracts worth over Sh2.2 billion and noted a conflict of interest regarding leasing his land to the county government, receiving Sh56,740,325 in rent. On October 12, 2023, the EACC recommended charges against Oparanya, his spouse, county officials, and company directors for corruption, conflict of interest, abuse of office, and money laundering. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) agreed with these recommendations on December 18, 2023. Oparanya has since obtained a stay order to prevent his arrest until his court petition is resolved.

 

Andrew Walyaula
Author: Andrew Walyaula

Andrew Walyaula is a seasoned multimedia journalist. waliaulaandrew0@gmail.com

Andrew Walyaula

About Author

Andrew Walyaula is a seasoned multimedia journalist. waliaulaandrew0@gmail.com

Leave a Reply

You may also like

Factors to consider before taking a loan in Kenya: The risks of being a guarantor: what you need to know: SACCO Loan Requirements
Features & Sacco Leadership

Factors to consider before taking a loan in Kenya

The surge in borrowing activities across Kenya highlights a growing inclination towards loans among its populace. With an array of
What is the importance of credit policy in Saccos: Benefits of Sacco membership for small business owners: How to increase Sacco membership: Why Sacco loans are cheaper: Factors contributing to member exits from SACCOs: How to exit from a SACCO
Features & Sacco Leadership

Why Sacco loans are cheaper and more accessible

Kenyan individuals and households are increasingly turning to Saving and Credit Cooperative Organisations (Saccos) and microfinance banks for loans, rather
error: Content is protected !!
×