Western Kenya leaders are pushing for Wycliffe Oparanya to be President William Ruto's running mate in the 2027 elections, with Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka leading the call.

Aseka argues that ODM's collaboration with UDA should result in Oparanya being rewarded with the deputy presidency, citing his experience as a former Kakamega governor and close ties to late ODM leader Raila Odinga.The push aims to consolidate Western support behind Oparanya, intensifying debates within the ODM-UDA alliance.

Aseka frames the arrangement as a division of labor between the two parties, with UDA handling the presidential ticket and ODM providing the running mate.

He criticizes resistance from some Luhya leaders and urges unity, noting that other ODM strongholds like Nyanza and the Coast have already endorsed Oparanya.

The debate over Ruto's deputy remains a contentious issue in the coalition government, with other names like Gladys Wanga and Junet Mohamed also floated.Aseka's remarks highlight growing regional efforts to secure Oparanya's candidacy amid political maneuvering.