Linda Mwananchi, a movement spearheaded by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna is rapidly evolving into a formidable force attracting influential figures amid concerns it could be a threat to established parties.
In recent weeks, the movement has brought on board prominent personalities from across the political divide as it stretches its appeal across the country.
Some of the new catches include former Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo and outspoken former Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter.
Odhiambo was on Tuesday given what Sifuna termed as ‘full parade’ welcome to the months-old movement.
"Full parade to welcome Madam President. Welcome to Linda Mwananchi Faith Odhiambo," Sifuna wrote on Tuesday.
A respected figure within Kenya's legal circles, Odhiambo has largely kept away from partisan politics throughout her career.
However, there are speculations that she is eyeing a political seat within Nairobi county in the 2027 general elections.
Odhiambo’s public profile has been built around legal advocacy, constitutionalism and the defence of human rights.
She made history in 2024 when she was elected the 51st president of the Law Society of Kenya, becoming only the second woman to hold the position after Raychelle Omamo.
Responding to Odhiambo’s joining forces with Linda Mwananchi, Homa Bay Town MP Opondo Kaluma dismissed the move, claiming the ex-LSK boss has lost political direction.
“I told you she long lost direction,” Kaluma said.
Odhiambo’s entry followed shortly after former firebrand legislator Alfred Keter publicly announced he is joining the movement led by Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
The former Nandi Hills MP, a rabble-rouser and outspoken politician was received into the ODM’s breakaway team early this month by Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga.
Kalasinga described Keter’s arrival as a major boost for the Edwin Sifuna-led outfit, arguing that his inclusion had strengthened the movement and expanded its national appeal.
“We are happy as team Sifuna to sign lethal striker called Alfred Keter. In one of our next three rallies, one will be staged in Nandi,” Majimbo said.
“Every day, our camp (Linda Mwananchi) is getting bigger and bigger.”
Linda Mwananchi is set for a major rally in Thika this Sunday, their first charm offensive to the vote-rich Mt Kenya region.
Apart from Odhiambo and Keter, Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo and Machakos Woman Representative Joyce Kamene joined the team during last month’s rally in Machakos town.
The team has also been emboldened by the entry of Bumula MP Jack Wamboka who initially was not part of the team’s itinerary.
Wamboka attended the 31st Linda Mwananchi rally in Machakos and has since become part of the strategy meetings of the movement.
The Sifuna’s camp also has the backing of former Meru Governor Kawira Mwanganza, who has severally expressed willingness to host the team in Meru where she is thought to have serious ground support.
The Star has established that the ODM splinter group is heading to Meru after this Sunday’s rally in Thika.
“From Thika, we shall be heading to Meru,” Vihiga Senator and Linda Mwananchi Treasurer Godfrey Osotsi told the Star.
Political observers view the latest additions as a sign that Linda Mwananchi is steadily transforming from an ODM splinter group into a broader political outfit with national ambitions.
Political analyst Herman Manyora said Keter’s move is a major gain for Linda Mwananchi even if it may not eat in Ruto’s grip in the area.
“For Linda Mwananchi, Alfred Keter would be a big, big catch. If it has happened, then it is quite something for them,” Manyora said.
“The entry of Alfred Keter and others from outside the traditional ODM strongholds will give it the national face that it appears to be seeking.”
Although the movement has not formally declared plans to register as a political party, insiders say preparations are underway to establish structures across the country.
The movement's bipartisan approach is seen as one of its biggest strengths.
Unlike traditional parties that draw support from specific regions or political camps, Linda Mwananchi has positioned itself as a platform that welcomes leaders from different ideological and political backgrounds.
Analysts predict the outfit is likely to gain significant traction in Nairobi and other metropolitan centres, where voters have increasingly shown a preference for issue-based politics over ethnic and party loyalties.
Urban populations, particularly young professionals and first-time voters, are viewed as the movement's primary target constituency.
The movement’s expansion is already causing anxiety within established political formations, with leaders quietly monitoring its growth.
Key areas that could be up for grabs include Nairobi, Rift Valley’s urban centres, Western Kenya towns and Mt Kenya's major towns, where traditional party loyalties are weaker and issue-based politics tends to gain traction.
Should the movement eventually transition into a fully-fledged political party, it is expected to bite into the support bases of both government-aligned and opposition parties, especially in urban constituencies where voter affiliations are often fluid.
Political analyst Martin Andati said Linda Mnwanchi has morphed into a formidable team that will spell trouble to a number of political formations.
“The team has become more formidable and it will be a force to reckon with and some established parties will suffer,” Andati told the Star on the phone.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
The entry of figures such as Odhiambo and Keter has further boosted the movement's profile, signalling that it may become a significant player in the run-up to the 2027 General Election.I66ts rapid growth suggests that Kenya's political establishment may soon have to contend with a new and potentially disruptive force.
