Petition filed seeking the removal of Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya Day After He Threatened To Resign
Petition filed seeking the removal of Cooperatives CS: The controversy comes after a recent decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, to drop corruption charges against Oparanya.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) had recommended prosecution, citing strong evidence of conflict of interest and money laundering.
According to the EACC, funds amounting to millions were allegedly channeled into Oparanya’s personal accounts, disguised as kickbacks from contractors working with the Kakamega County Government.
However, EACC chief executive officer Twalib Mbarak insisted that the evidence was “cogent enough” to meet the threshold for prosecution.
The anti-graft body expressed frustration with the DPP’s decision to abandon the case, a move that has now prompted a legal challenge.
On Tuesday, August 13, Fredrick Mulaa, a concerned citizen, filed a petition at the anti-corruption division of the High Court. He argues that the DPP’s decision to drop the charges was not only illegal but also compromised the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity.
According to Mulaa the charges against Oparanya were grounded in solid evidence and that the DPP’s reversal was influenced by political considerations rather than the public interest.
Oparanya, however, maintains that the funds in question were a loan from the contractor, not illicit kickbacks.
Mulaa’s petition seeks to withdraw Oparanya’s appointment and demands the court to order a full review of the DPP’s decision to drop the charges.
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