This archive report was first published on 18 July 2020.
Published on July 18, 2020
Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya defied Vihiga ANC leaders by holding a political meeting at ANC official Julius Ochiel's home on Friday.
The meeting, steered by Bunyore elders, was attended by Luanda MP Chris Omulele and was held to mark the anniversary of the late Nehemiah Ochiel, Julius's father, who served as Kakamega mayor.
ANC has since called a meeting in Mbale to replace Julius Ochiel for hosting a leader from a rival party, but the Kakamega county boss was not deterred.
County commander Leonard Omolo had informed Mr Oparanya that the meeting had not been allowed, but as the police boss was addressing journalists outside the home, Mr Oparanya's meeting was going on without the use of loudspeakers.
Mr Oparanya urged locals to shun opposition for the sake of development, a message that was met with a warning from Mr Omolo that any politician who would disobey the ban on political gatherings will be arrested and charged in court.
"Vihiga has a problem of Covid-19 and we currently have nine cases. We don't want any political gathering that brings together many people," said Mr Omolo.
Despite the warning, the meeting proceeded for about three hours, with Mr Oparanya explaining that he was at the home because Julius Ochiel is his friend, dating back to the time they were officials of AFC Leopards football club.
