Irungu Kang’ata Reveals Why He Dumped Linda Mwananchi, Delivers Blunt AFC Leopards Comparison

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has explained why he left the Linda Mwananchi movement and joined the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), sparking political debate.

Kang’ata made the remarks on Sunday, October 25, 2026, while addressing worshippers at AIPCA Nyahururu Cathedral, where he discussed his political journey.

During his address, the governor compared Linda Mwananchi to AFC Leopards, a football club widely associated with Kenya’s Luhya community.

His comparison appeared to question the movement’s political identity, suggesting that Linda Mwananchi was associated with a particular community.

Kang’ata explained that his involvement in Linda Mwananchi was not necessarily driven by permanent political allegiance but by efforts to unite opposition leaders.

He described himself as a mediator whose responsibility was bringing different political factions together, comparing his role to former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

“I was in a team called Linda Mwananchi. That is AFC Leopards. Today, I have defected and joined DCP na wote wameshikamana,” Kang’ata stated.

He added that his responsibility had been bringing the two sides together, suggesting that his participation in the movement served a broader political purpose.

The governor confirmed that he had officially joined DCP, a party associated with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua

His latest political move comes months after joining Linda Mwananchi in June 2026 during an event held at Kivulini Grounds in Thika.

Before joining the movement, Kang’ata had announced that he would not seek re-election as Murang’a governor on a United Democratic Alliance ticket.

His departure from Linda Mwananchi now places him within DCP’s political camp as opposition leaders continue positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Despite changing political affiliations, Kang’ata expressed confidence in the opposition’s ability to unite and challenge the ruling administration during the upcoming election.

He specifically mentioned Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Linda Mwananchi leader Edwin Sifuna and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua as key opposition figures.

According to Kang’ata, the three leaders could provide the political leadership necessary to strengthen the opposition and improve its chances of winning the presidency.

The governor’s remarks also highlighted the continuing negotiations and political realignments taking place among opposition figures seeking a united electoral front.

However, his AFC Leopards comparison could attract criticism, particularly from supporters who believe Linda Mwananchi represents a broader national political movement.

Beyond political realignments, Kang’ata also used the church gathering to criticise the national government over developments affecting healthcare services in Murang’a County.

He accused the national government of forcing the shutdown of Afya.ke, the hospital management system used by his county to coordinate healthcare services.

Kang’ata argued that the decision could negatively affect patients, accusing senior government officials of prioritising private financial interests over the welfare of ordinary Kenyans.

His remarks add another dimension to his growing disagreements with the national administration, particularly concerning healthcare management and the distribution of government resources.

The governor’s political journey continues to attract attention as Kenya’s opposition landscape undergoes significant changes ahead of the next general election.

His latest declaration also raises questions about the future of Linda Mwananchi and how different opposition factions will cooperate when selecting presidential candidates.

For now, Kang’ata appears firmly aligned with DCP while maintaining confidence that opposition leaders can overcome their differences and mount a serious electoral challenge.

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