Kituyi: Linda Mwananchi Movement too strong to ignore

United Opposition spokesperson Mukhisa Kituyi has said the growing influence of the Linda Mwananchi faction within ODM cannot be ignored as they work to form a formidable alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during an interview with NTV, Kituyi underscored the importance of factoring in the group led by Edwin Sifuna, noting that its rising popularity has made it a significant player in the evolving opposition landscape.

“It is impossible to discuss a united opposition without factoring in Edwin Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi; one cannot wish them away,” Kituyi said.

He pointed out that historically, opposition unity in Kenya tends to crystallise closer to election periods, suggesting that the current fragmentation is not unusual.

“Opposition in Kenyan history unites up to the day of the election. The most successful opposition unity which came to power in 2002 was really formed some two or three months to the election,” he said.

Kituyi added that there is no fixed timeline for when the United Opposition will fully coalesce, citing the many political variables at play. 

“There is no clear timeline for the United Opposition to be completely united. There are so many other dynamics out there,” he said.

The former Cabinet minister acknowledged that when efforts to build a united front began, the Linda Mwananchi faction had not yet emerged as a major force.

However, he admitted that its growing clout has since reshaped opposition calculations.

“When we started forming the United Opposition, we did not envisage Edwin Sifuna and his Linda Mwananchi as a force. You cannot wish them away today,” he said.

Kituyi also alluded to internal debates within ODM, particularly between those advocating for a one-term presidency and those open to a second term for President William Ruto, saying such divisions will influence how alliances are structured.

“You cannot talk about United Opposition without thinking, is the battle inside ODM between those saying one term and those saying two term going the way of those who think like us or those who think like President William Ruto?” he posed.

Rather than focusing on accommodation, Kituyi emphasised the need for strategic engagement with the faction.

“At the end of it, we look at how do we engage. It is not about accommodating them, but how do we engage with them?” he said.

He further credited the Linda Mwananchi movement with energising a new segment of the electorate, particularly young voters.

“They have a legitimate mandate. They are reinvigorating younger voters, they are bringing out Gen Zs who are registering as voters,” Kituyi noted.

The Linda Mwananchi faction has recently gained prominence as a vocal bloc advocating for economic justice and citizen-centered governance.

Its messaging has resonated with many Kenyans facing high living costs and increased taxation, positioning it as a grassroots-driven force within the opposition.