Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya on Thursday, June 18, met Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala for talks centred on the political future of the Luhya community ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement after the meeting, Oparanya said the two leaders discussed the importance of unity within the Mulembe nation and exchanged views on issues affecting the country’s social and economic development.
The Cabinet Secretary also revealed that part of the discussions focused on the progress and prospects of Shirikiana SACCO, which was officially launched by President William Ruto last week.
Oparanya Meets DCP’s Cleophas Malala. Photo: Courtesy.
According to Oparanya, the SACCO is expected to expand financial inclusion, encourage a savings culture and provide affordable credit and investment opportunities to residents across the Western region.
Oparanya defended his engagement with Malala, despite the former Kakamega senator being a senior figure in the opposition and an outspoken critic of President Ruto’s administration.
He maintained that dialogue among leaders remains important in promoting national cohesion and advancing the interests of Kenyans regardless of political affiliation.
The meeting comes just days after leaders from the United Opposition toured the Western region in a bid to rally support for their coalition ahead of the 2027 polls.
During the tour, the opposition accused President Ruto of failing to fulfil key promises made to the region, including infrastructure development and equitable representation in government.
The leaders also criticised National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, accusing the two of neglecting the interests of the Luhya community in favour of their own political ambitions.
