Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has dismissed reports of growing tensions within the Linda Mwananchi Movement, maintaining that its leaders remain united in their efforts to build a political vehicle capable of forming the next government.
Osotsi claimed the government is attempting to create divisions within the movement, saying the alleged strategy would not succeed.
He said leaders associated with Linda Mwananchi were speaking with one voice despite reports of disagreements between different factions and their supporters.
“All these leaders are speaking with one voice; Governor James Orengo, MP Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna,” Osotsi said.
“We are one. The only problem is the government, which is creating problems within Linda Mwananchi.”
His remarks came amid growing attention to the relationship between Sifuna and Babu, whose supporters have in recent days traded barbs as the movement seeks to establish itself ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sifuna has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in Linda Mwananchi and has been stepping up his national mobilisation activities. Babu, who commands a strong political base in Nairobi, has also positioned himself as a key player in efforts to build a wider opposition alliance.
The emerging differences have raised questions over whether competing political ambitions could complicate efforts to establish a united opposition platform.
DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has also intervened in the matter, urging Sifuna and Babu to close ranks and prevent their differences from splitting the movement.
Speaking during his ongoing tour of the United States, Gachagua said he had spoken separately to the two leaders after learning that their supporters were exchanging attacks.
“I know there is a small challenge back home with Linda Mwananchi, supporters of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino trading barbs,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua claimed the government was attempting to infiltrate the movement and exploit differences among its leaders.
“I placed a call to Edwin Sifuna, I had a long conversation and did the same with Babu. And I told them your Linda Mwananchi Movement is being infiltrated by the government and your supporters are falling for it,” he said.
Meanwhile, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa has opened the door for Sifuna to join his party and pursue his presidential ambitions under its banner.
Wamalwa said Sifuna should consider the option if efforts to register Linda Mwananchi as a political party continue to face difficulties.
“Where there is a will, there is a way,” Wamalwa said.
“If the government is giving you problems registering Linda Mwananchi as a party, we are here ready to welcome you.”
Wamalwa's offer adds another dimension to the unfolding political realignment, with Sifuna having previously positioned Linda Mwananchi as a vehicle for his broader national ambitions.
