The push to forge a broad-based opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 polls gathered momentum on Sunday after Linda Mwananchi leaders openly declared they would eventually join hands with the united opposition.
Speaking during a church service at AIPCA Thika Cathedral, several Linda Mwananchi leaders signalled growing convergence between the two formations, framing unity as the only viable path to unseat President William Ruto.
The remarks come amid ongoing negotiations among opposition leaders seeking to build a formidable coalition capable of mounting a serious challenge against Ruto in 2027.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, one of the key figures in the Linda Mwananchi movement, urged opposition supporters to focus on building a credible vehicle for political change rather than prematurely rallying behind individual candidates.
“The journey we are starting in Thika today, what I am pleading with you is that we should not repeat the mistakes we have made before,” Orengo said.
“Kenya needs a movement for change. But this business of saying we want this one or that one without building a vehicle for change is a mistake. Linda Mwananchi is being accepted across the entire republic because people are looking for a vehicle for change.”
The movement, which initially emerged as a platform associated with a section of ODM leaders, has in recent months expanded its reach and increasingly positioned itself as a national opposition force.
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata is the latest entrant in the Linda Mwananchi camp.
Orengo also extended an olive branch to leaders within the united opposition alliance, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whose Democracy for the Citizens Party has become a key pillar of the anti-Ruto political movement.
“I want to thank former President Uhuru Kenyatta for supporting and praying for Raila Odinga to be president. I also want to thank the leaders of the united opposition, including those from this area, and I dare say even Gachagua. He used to be my client. We want to move together. Are we going to move together?” Orengo posed to the congregation.
His remarks were interpreted as one of the clearest indications yet that leaders within Linda Mwananchi are prepared to work alongside the united opposition despite concerns that have occasionally surfaced over leadership and the structure of a future coalition.
Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi echoed the unity message while warning that efforts were underway to create divisions within the opposition ranks.
He urged the church and supporters to pray for opposition leaders, saying external forces were attempting to weaken the growing movement through political intrigues and divisions.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who has declared interest in the Nairobi governor's seat, was even more direct, stating that the two camps would ultimately merge their political efforts.
“Linda Mwananchi and the opposition will join hands because we have to unite to remove Ruto from office,” Babu said.
The event also highlighted the growing engagement between Linda Mwananchi and leaders allied to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, one of the principal figures in the opposition alliance.
Among those present were Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo and political analyst Tony Gachoka, both regarded as close allies of Kalonzo.
Their attendance added to speculation that discussions on opposition unity are gaining traction behind the scenes as leaders seek to avoid fragmentation ahead of the next election.
Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga also embraced the unity narrative, employing the now-popular "Wantam" slogan associated with anti-government mobilisation.
“As we are speaking, Gachagua is in Chwele looking for votes and preaching the Wantam slogan. And I am here in Thika saying Wantam,” Kalasinga said.
“Let me tell you, Bishop, when Gachagua’s wire connects with Linda Mwananchi’s wire, someone will be struck by an electric shock at State House.”
At the same time, Kalonzo campaigned for Kalasinga’s re-election, saying he has represented and defended his people in Parliament.
“When I met your MP, I placed my hands on his head and blessed him. He has always stood by his people, including rejecting the Finance Bill,” Kalonzo said.
The remarks on Sunday reflect the growing confidence among opposition leaders that a united front could significantly alter the country's political landscape.
In recent months, both Linda Mwananchi and the united opposition have repeatedly said that removing Ruto from power will require a broad coalition bringing together diverse political interests.
Speaking during the funeral of the mother of EALA MP Kanini Kega last month, Gachagua declared that the united opposition would work with “those young men”, alluding to Linda Mwananchi.
While questions remain over the eventual presidential ticket and power-sharing arrangements, Sunday’s declarations suggest opposition leaders are increasingly focused on building consensus before settling on individual ambitions.
