Jubilee MPs vow to defy party and support Oparanya in 2017 elections

Governor Wycliffe Oparanya

Two Jubilee MPs have said they will support Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya in the 2017 general election.

MPs Benjamin Washiali (Mumias East) and Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo) said they will marshal their supporters to vote for the Orange Democratic Movement deputy party leader.

They said the governor has initiated development projects geared towards improving the lives of locals.

Speaking in Bumini in his constituency, Mr Washiali said: "In 2017 I am ready to defy my party orders to vote and support Oparanya regardless of his party. I will marshal support for the governor."

Mr Wangwe also revealed that he will support Oparanya who was the planning minister in retired President Mwai Kibaki's regime.

"I have declared that in 2017 I will back Oparanya for the seat. He has what it takes to transform this county. We have witnessed it in his first term and we have to support his bid for the next term," Wangwe added.

The two were elected on a United Democratic Front (UDF) ticket. UDF will fold and join Jubilee Party.