This archive report was first published on 27 December 2021.
Atwoli, Oparanya's Bukhungu Rally Preparations Complete ¶
Preparations for a major social gathering in Bukhungu, set to take place on December 31, have been finalized by Francis Atwoli and Wycliffe Oparanya.
According to sources, the event is expected to see Oparanya take on a new role as the representative of Western Kenya residents, a position previously held by Musalia Mudavadi, who was ousted in a 2016 gathering in the same region.
Atwoli, who has been instrumental in organizing the event, has led a delegation of local MPs to visit the area before the gathering takes place on December 31.
Raila Odinga, the leader of Azimio la Umoja, has confirmed his attendance at the event, stating that he will be present to support the people of Western Kenya.
“I have accepted the invitation and will be attending the gathering because this is my home. I urge my people to come out and vote for me as the next president of Kenya,” Odinga said in a statement.
A number of other politicians have also thrown their weight behind the event, including Eseli Simiyu, Bernard Shinali, Emmanuel Wangwe, Raphael Wanjala, Godfrey Osotsi, Justus Kizito, and Elsie Muhanda.
“After the gathering, we as residents of this area will move forward with a clear direction in politics,” Oparanya said.
However, some politicians have expressed concerns over the event, with Cleophas Malala threatening to disrupt the gathering, stating that it has not been sanctioned by Musalia Mudavadi.
“Mudavadi has confirmed that he will not be attending the Bukhungu gathering. I urge those organizing the event to seek his permission before proceeding, otherwise the gathering will not take place,” Malala said.
