Kang’ata urges Linda Mwananchi team to reach out to Gachagua
The ODM Linda Mwananchi got a major boost on Sunday with the entry of Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, who recently ditched the UDA party, as the splinter political movement intensified its mobilisation drive Mt Kenya, rallying supporters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The movement, a breakaway faction from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and championed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, pitched camp at Kivulini Grounds in Thika where leaders called on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers in 2027 and vote out President William Ruto’s administration.
Speakers at the rally cited governance failures, alleged grand corruption, police brutality targeting young people, abductions and conflict of interest, accusing the government of diverting public funds from key sectors such as healthcare and education.
Governor Kang’ata, in his address, said President Ruto had lost touch with ordinary citizens, pointing to the high cost of living, rising taxation and an unfavourable business environment that he said had led to job losses and closure of businesses.
“I have also asked Sifuna to look for Wamunyoro( Rigathi) and work together. I just want a better Kenya,” he said.
He also criticised the Kenya Kwanza administration over its social health reforms and the affordable housing programme, terming them poorly structured and out of step with the country’s immediate priorities.
Senator Sifuna told supporters that the movement was preparing for what he described as a decisive political shift in 2027, accusing the President of failing to deliver on his 2022 campaign pledges.
“People are tired of unfulfilled promises, the high cost of living and unemployment. As Linda Mwananchi, we are ready to work with like-minded leaders to ensure change in 2027,” he said.
Former Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo called for political unity, saying Kenyans needed to consolidate efforts to end what she termed as poor governance.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino urged voters not to be swayed by money during elections, saying the youth were bearing the brunt of unemployment and economic hardship.
Siaya Governor James Orengo said the Mount Kenya region remained central in determining the presidency, arguing that President Ruto had lost political support across key regions.
“The solutions to Kenya’s problems will come from Mount Kenya. The President has lost support in several regions, including Kisumu and Mombasa,” he said.
The rally was briefly disrupted by suspected goons, with police sources indicating that local officers had been warned against providing security to the event. By the time of going to press, Police Spokesman Michael Muchiri had not responded to requests for comment.