Former Kakamega County Governor Wycliffe Oparanya was detained by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Thursday evening. He was questioned for over an hour at the Kakamega Police Station. Oparanya’s arrest was related to allegations of using a government vehicle during Wednesday’s protests in Busia town.
The officials, arriving in three vehicles, apprehended Oparanya at Khayega Police Station along the Kakamega-Kisumu highway. He was then taken to the Kakamega Police Station to provide a statement. Following a private interrogation, Oparanya addressed the press and claimed that his arrest was a deliberate tactic by the government to intimidate opposition leaders and discourage their participation in protests.
Lawyer Ken Echesa expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which Oparanya was arrested. He demanded the return of his client’s vehicle, which is currently being held at the Kakamega Police Station, and warned of potential legal action.
Kakamega County Member of Parliament Elsie Muhanda, along with other leaders, visited the police station to condemn Oparanya’s arrest. They hinted at the continuation of protests until their demands are heard.