Oparanya faces backlash after inviting MPs to Swahili Beach Hotel

juma chrispinus

May 7, 2018 10:58 AM

The meeting was to discuss development

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has over the weekend faced a backlash from a section of MPs after organising a two-day retreat in Mombasa’s Swahili Beach Hotel.

Led by Likuyani MP Enock Kibunguchy, who snubbed the meeting after receiving the invitation via a text message, the lawmakers faulted the governor, demanding that the meeting be held in Kakamega or Kisumu instead.

“We (MPs) all come from Kakamega County and it does not sound right for the retreat to be organised in Mombasa when the focus should be on proper use of available resources at the county,” Dr Kibunguchy said.

Mr Oparanya, who is also angling for the presidency in 2022, sent out an invitation text message to all MPs in Kakamega, urging them to show up for a two day meeting, demanding a reply from each MP to “finalize on plans.”

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“Governor Oparanya requests for a retreat with all the Kakamega County MPs at Swahili Beach Hotel in Mombasa on 4th and 5th May. Check in on 3rd and departure on 6th. Please confirm availability for finalization of plans,” reads the message allegedly sent out by the former Housing and Planning Minister.

The meeting was, however, attended by all the county executive committee members, and snubbed by among others, Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka.

The County Chief of staff Mr Robert Sumbi said Governor Oparanya convened the meeting to discuss the region’s development agenda and look into ways of forging a close partnership with the MPs.

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