Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya Released After Controversial Arrest, Vows to Continue Protests

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n a surprising turn of events, the chairman of the Azimio coalition, Wycliffe Oparanya, has been released from the Kakamega Police Station following his arrest earlier today. Oparanya, who addressed the media outside the police station, expressed his dissatisfaction with the treatment he received during the ordeal.

Oparanya revealed that while en route to a dinner invitation from a colleague in Bungoma, his vehicle was intercepted by three unmarked cars in the Khayega area. Unidentified individuals, claiming to be DCI officers, forcefully pulled out Oparanya's driver and occupied the driver's seat themselves.

"I was treated like a criminal. I didn't like it."

According to the former Kakamega Governor, the officers demanded his presence at the police station to provide a statement regarding the protests that took place in Busia on Wednesday. Specifically, they wanted him to explain the use of government vehicles during the demonstrations. However, Oparanya refused the request, citing his discontent with the manner in which he was being treated.

Accompanied by his lawyer, Kennedy Echesa, and other prominent politicians, including Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda, Oparanya expressed his frustration with the arrest. Echesa, present at the time, volunteered to draft the statement on behalf of the former governor.

While the reason for Oparanya's arrest remains unclear, Echesa criticized the regional DCI officer for failing to provide a valid explanation. He accused the former governor of leading protests in Busia and Bungoma on Wednesday. As a result, Oparanya's legal team has demanded the return of his government vehicle, as stipulated under the Kakamega County Pensions Act 2022. Failure to comply would result in legal action against the DCI for alleged harassment, intimidation, and violation of the former governor's rights.

Addressing the residents shortly after his release, Oparanya encouraged them to participate in upcoming demonstrations scheduled for Wednesday, July 19. His call to action emphasizes the continuation of protests in support of an undisclosed cause.

As the situation unfolds, Oparanya awaits further communication from the authorities, hoping for clarity regarding his recent arrest and the return of his government vehicle.