Robert Alai posted a photo of Wycliff Oparanya as a possible replacement for Kithure Kindiki. This was also discussed among Ruto’s confidants. The discussion appeared to favour Oparanya because of his experience and the numbers he comes with from Kakamega County. Kakamega County has a total of 844551 registered voters. These are the votes Ruto is aiming to get—they are more than voted Kindiki would attract for Ruto.
The debate about Oparanya came at a time when Edwin Sifuna’s popularity is rising significantly. Sifuna has overshadowed Wetangula and Mudavadi to become the undisputed Kingpin of Luhyaland. Ruto wants to counter that popularity by fronting Oparanya as his running mate. Already, there are signs that Kindiki won’t be Ruto’s running mate in 2027.
Ruto is assured of Luo votes,he doesn’t have to pick a Luo as his running mate. He will focus on Western and Ukambani. If he won’t go for Kalonzo,he will pick Oparanya.
