‘Misinformation’: Omtatah denies threat to challenge Linda Mwananchi Movement

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah/FILEBusia Senator Okiya Omtatah has dismissed a digital card attributed to him that claimed he would challenge the legality of the Linda Mwananchi Movement, describing it as misinformation.

In a response, Omtatah said the statement circulating online did not reflect his approach to political discourse, suggesting it was intended to attract attention and online engagement.

“This is clearly misinformation, seemingly intended to generate clicks and online engagement,” he said.

The digital card, dated Saturday, October 31, carried a statement claiming Omtatah had dismissed the movement’s launch as inconsequential to Kenya’s political landscape.

“The Linda Mwananchi Movement launch is inconsequential in Kenya’s political landscape. I will challenge its legality in the coming weeks,” the card read.

The statement was attributed to “Okiya Omutatah”, with the senator’s surname misspelt.

Omtatah distanced himself from the statement and said he preferred to engage in discussions based on facts and mutual respect.

“However, I prefer to engage on issues with facts, reason and mutual respect. I do not trade in insults or descend into unnecessary exchanges. That is simply not my style,” he said.

The digital card emerged as the Linda Mwananchi Movement seeks to establish itself in Kenya’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The movement, formerly known as The Equitable Party (TEP), was founded by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as opposition leaders realign amid shifting political alliances.

Linda Mwananchi, which translates to “Protect the Citizen” in Swahili, has gained momentum through community engagements and regional rallies.

On October 30 and 31, 2026, the movement unveiled its proposed national leadership and secretariat ahead of its National Delegates Convention scheduled for November 13.

Sifuna was named party leader-designate, while Siaya Senator Godfrey Osotsi was named chairperson-designate.

Other proposed officials include former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, former Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau and former Rarieda MP Caroli Omondi.

The leadership announcement comes as opposition figures continue positioning themselves ahead of the next general election.

The unveiling of the Lavington headquarters marks a new phase in Sifuna's push to position himself as the opposition's joint presidential candidate.

The proposed leadership team will be presented for approval at the movement's National Delegates Convention on November 13.