Former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale on Saturday surprised residents of Lurambi in Kakamega when he declared himself 'Governor'.
The outspoken Ford Kenya Deputy Party leader who was speaking during the homecoming party of Lurambi MP Titus Khalama said as a responsible 'Governor' he chose to give Governor Wycliffe Oparanya time to complete his projects before he officially takes over power.
"I am the only Governor who declined calls to go the court because I wanted the government of the county of Kakamega to start working from day one," he said to an ululation from the crowd during the event also attended by Deputy President William Ruto.
"I want to call on all of you to support Hon Wycliffe Oparanya so that he completes his four years. After the four years, in 2022, Khalwale takes over."
Khalwale during the August 8th general election unsuccessfully contested for the Kakamega gubernatorial seat but lost to Oparanya. He insists that the poll was not conducted in accordance with the law and maintains that he won the election.
He declined to challenge Oparanya's win in the court despite immense pressure from his supporters.
Khalwale has been at loggerheads with Oparanya who he accuses of not doing much to uplift the livelihoods of Kakamega residents especially sugarcane farmers.
Oparanya recently during the Fifth Devolution Conference in Kakamega caused a stir when he said he would appoint Khalwale as the head of bullfighting.