Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi Movement seeks to expand grassroots support

Nairobi, Kenya - The Linda Mwananchi Movement, led by Edwin Sifuna, is experiencing a surge in membership and aspiring candidates as it gears up for the 2027 General Election, according to Party Head of Communications Pauline Njoroge. Sifuna recently met with potential candidates from Bungoma County and later visited Trans-Nzoia County to engage with more prospective candidates.

The movement is witnessing a heightened interest from individuals eager to contest under its banner, marking the beginning of what Njoroge describes as a "ballot revolution". This increase in support comes after The Equitable Party (TEP) National Executive Council voted to rebrand itself as the Linda Mwananchi Movement, a move that was unveiled on October 4.

Edwin Sifuna, previously the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), is spearheading the movement's expansion across the country through rallies and grassroots outreach efforts. Several opposition politicians, including Suba South MP Caroli Omondi and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, have joined the Linda Mwananchi Movement, leaving the ODM in the wake of political realignments and divisions.

The movement is set to undergo the legal and administrative procedures necessary to officially change its name and align with the Linda Mwananchi identity. The reforms have already gained approval from the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties, with the TEP officials' names being changed and the reservation of the Linda Mwananchi Movement name for 90 days pending a ruling from the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal.