Atwoli: Ruto must broker truce between governor Barasa and CS Oparanya

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) leader Francis Atwoli has urged President William Ruto to mediate a truce between Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and former governor Wycliffe Oparanya. Speaking at a UDA aspirants' forum on September 5, 2026, Atwoli emphasized the importance of peace within Kakamega County's leadership.

Both Barasa and Oparanya have previously served as governors and have been praised for their respective terms. Atwoli called on President Ruto to unite them in their support for Ruto's bid for a second term. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership, led by party leader Oburu Odinga, attempted to mediate the dispute by convening a meeting between the two leaders, but progress has been limited.

The rift between Barasa and Oparanya intensified during a Linda ground consultation meeting, where two separate events were held, one under Odinga's guidance and the other under Barasa's. The conflict originated in the aftermath of the 2022 General Election, when Barasa won the governorship. Oparanya had previously supported Barasa, but tensions grew following Barasa's victory.

Oparanya has blamed Barasa for his ongoing issues with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), claiming Barasa was behind attempts to target him. Barasa has become increasingly isolated, with key political figures in Kakamega distancing themselves from him. The dispute also involves Oparanya endorsing Elsie Muhanda for the gubernatorial seat, while criticizing Barasa for failing to deliver for the people of Kakamega County.

Barasa is also facing tension with his deputy governor, Ayub Savula, who has recently defended his boss against criticism from Oparanya, Muhanda, and Nabwera.