Image: HILTON OTENYO
In a letter dated July 29 and addressed to the Clerk of the National Assembly, the EACC detailed their concerns regarding Oparanya. They highlighted that Oparanya is currently involved in a corruption case where he is accused of owning assets obtained through corrupt means.
These assets are currently under a court preservation order, meaning they are frozen until the court makes a final decision. The allegations against him stem from his time as the governor of Kakamega County, where he served for two terms.
The EACC’s concerns are significant. On July 26, the High Court declined Oparanya's request to unfreeze his assets. This decision was a major setback for Oparanya, as it keeps his assets inaccessible while the corruption case is ongoing.
The EACC is seeking to recover approximately Sh1.3 billion, which they allege was embezzled during Oparanya’s tenure as governor. This amount is linked to several companies and officials from Kakamega County government, suggesting a wide-reaching corruption scheme.
Despite these allegations, Oparanya is scheduled to appear before Members of Parliament (MPs) for vetting on Sunday. This vetting process is a crucial step in his nomination as Cabinet Secretary. However, the EACC’s letter casts a shadow over this process, urging MPs to consider the serious corruption charges against him.
Oparanya, however, remains defiant. Speaking at a Luhya community development conference, he expressed his readiness to serve in the government of national unity.
He stated, “The most important thing is that I am ready to serve in this government of national unity. I will be open, offer suggestions and propose what is best for the country because we want to move forward for the good of our nation.”
Oparanya emphasized his past contributions to the development of the Vision 2030 plan, indicating his understanding of national development priorities.
The EACC’s role is to ensure that public officials are free from corruption and act in the best interest of the public.
The case against Oparanya revolves around accusations of embezzling public funds. The EACC alleges that Oparanya, during his time as Kakamega governor, was involved in corrupt activities that led to the loss of Sh1.3 billion.
These allegations are part of a broader investigation into corruption in Kakamega County, involving multiple officials and companies.
Oparanya’s attempts to have his assets unfrozen have been unsuccessful. On July 26, the High Court ruled against his request, maintaining the freeze on his assets.
Oparanya’s scheduled vetting by MPs is a key step in his nomination process. However, the EACC’s letter raises questions about his suitability for the Cabinet Secretary position.
The vetting process is designed to assess the qualifications and integrity of nominees, ensuring they are fit for public office. The EACC’s concerns suggest that Oparanya may not meet these standards.
Despite the allegations, Oparanya has expressed his commitment to serving in the government. He emphasized his readiness to contribute to national development and his understanding of the government’s goals.
His participation in the Vision 2030 plan highlights his experience in public service and development planning.
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