Edwin Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi flexes political muscle in Nairobi tour

Siaya Governor James Orengo has committed to engaging in discussions with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna to facilitate the selection of a single presidential candidate for the Linda Mwananchi movement prior to the 2027 General Election. During a Linda Mwananchi tour in Nairobi on Sunday, September 13, 2026, Orengo stated his intention to meet with Sifuna to mediate their conflicting presidential ambitions and ensure the movement presents a unified candidate to challenge President William Ruto.

"Sifuna is my son. I want to announce that Sifuna and I will sit together at the negotiation table to ensure that we liberate Kenya," Orengo declared.

Sifuna, who has also declared his presidential ambitions, supported the call for unity, emphasizing that the opposition must eventually agree upon one candidate. However, Babu Owino, another Linda Mwananchi principal, acknowledged Orengo's presidential aspirations but tactfully stated that the opposition must select a single flag bearer to face President Ruto.

The other Linda Mwananchi leaders, headed by spokesperson Caroli Omondi, rejected Orengo's bid, asserting that Edwin Sifuna has been designated as the movement's presidential candidate.

This development followed a week after Orengo clarified his presidential intentions, asserting that critics opposing his candidacy were not acting in the spirit of democracy and thus, were not true democrats. He claimed his candidacy was driven by internal democratic principles and the need for the United Opposition to unify behind one flag bearer for the upcoming General Election.

If Sifuna's prospects proved stronger, Orengo expressed readiness to withdraw and support the Nairobi senator. He also drew parallels to the 2007 situation in the Pentagon, where despite individual presidential ambitions, a vote was held and Raila Odinga emerged victorious, with the other principals rallying behind him. Orengo further dismissed the urgency to appoint their flag bearer, advocating for further consultations before reaching a decision.

However, SP Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi criticized Orengo, suggesting that Sifuna's moment had come and that the governor should have adopted a more advisory role instead of competing with Sifuna for the presidential ticket. Amisi also argued that the 2027 election would be a contest for generational change, favoring the Nairobi senator.