The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has uncovered shocking allegations involving Wycliffe Oparanya, the Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development, and his wife.
Investigations reveal that Oparanya’s spouse allegedly received Ksh5.9 million from the Kakamega County Government for a trip to Dallas, USA, that never took place.
According to a gazette notice dated February 28, 2025, the funds were irregularly disbursed through the Office of the County First Lady, an entity not legally recognized.
The EACC stated that the money was transferred to her M-Pesa and bank accounts under the guise of allowances and other payments.
CS Oparanya during a past media presser. Photo: Nation Source: X
The scandal has raised serious questions about accountability and governance, particularly given Oparanya’s current role in the national government.
The EACC disclosed that the payments were facilitated by the County Secretary and the Finance Department, with the former governor’s wife’s Personal Assistant allegedly generating fraudulent requisitions.
This is not the first time Oparanya and his family have faced corruption allegations. In August 2023, the EACC arrested Oparanya and his two wives over claims of embezzling Ksh1.3 billion during his tenure as Kakamega Governor.
The latest revelations further tarnish his reputation, casting a shadow over his political career.
Cooperative CS Wycliff Oparanya during a past media presser. Photo: Nation Source: Facebook
The EACC has recommended charges against Oparanya’s wife, the County Secretary, and other officials for unlawful acquisition of public property, abuse of office, and financial misconduct. The case has been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for action.
As Kenyans await the DPP’s decision, the scandal underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in public office.
Oparanya’s wife, now at the center of the storm, faces mounting pressure to explain her role in the alleged misappropriation of public funds.
For now, the Oparanya family remains under scrutiny, with the EACC vowing to pursue justice relentlessly.
