Top Politician Officially Ditches TEP PartyJust Weeks After It’s Formation As He Forms New One

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has moved closer to establishing the Linda Mwananchi Movement as his political party’s official identity after the public objection period for the proposed name change passed without any objections being reported.

The development follows a notice issued by the Registrar of Political Parties on October 12, 2026, inviting members of the public to submit written objections to the proposed change from The Equitable Party (TEP) to Linda Mwananchi Movement (LMM).

The notice, published under Gazette Notice No. 16427, provided an opportunity for interested parties to raise concerns about the proposed name in accordance with the Political Parties Act.

By October 20, no objections had been reported, allowing the rebranding process to move forward. However, the Registrar’s earlier communication outlined additional procedural requirements before the change could be fully completed.

Sifuna had unveiled TEP on October 4 as the political vehicle for the Linda Mwananchi Movement, which has attracted attention through its political activities and public engagements.

During the launch, the Nairobi senator said the movement’s leaders had agreed to change the party’s name to reflect the identity under which they intended to organise their political activities.

He explained that the rebranding was part of a decision made by the movement’s principals, signalling their intention to align the party with the Linda Mwananchi name.

Following the announcement, the party began the formal process of securing approval for the change.

Registrar of Political Parties John Cox Lorionokou confirmed receiving documents submitted by TEP in support of its application.

These included minutes and a signed attendance list from the party’s National Executive Committee meeting held on October 8, as well as a resolution approving the proposed name change.

The party also submitted Form PP.10 and other supporting documents required for the process.

In a letter to TEP, Lorionokou said his office had initiated the gazettement process in line with Section 20(1)(d) of the Political Parties Act.

The Registrar further directed the party to report any representations received from members of the public and explain how the issues raised had been addressed.

The proposed rebranding comes as Sifuna and other figures associated with Linda Mwananchi continue their political mobilisation.

The movement’s adoption of a formal party identity could provide a clearer structure for its activities as political discussions ahead of the 2027 General Election gather pace.

The finalisation of the name change will depend on the completion of the applicable legal and administrative procedures.

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