Vihiga ODM chairman Ben Ombima has warned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna against relying on crowds to build a political base, saying the presidency is won through strong structures.
Ombima said Sifuna may attract large numbers at his Linda Mwananchi rallies, but crowds alone cannot guarantee victory in a presidential election.
“Presidency is won through strong structures,” Ombima said, in remarks directed at Sifuna.
His comments come as Sifuna steps up his nationwide mobilisation under the Linda Mwananchi banner ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The movement has held rallies and consultative meetings in different parts of the country as Sifuna seeks to expand his political influence beyond Nairobi.
Sifuna’s team has also received support from several politicians, including Siaya Governor James Orengo and Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, as the group pushes for a stronger national political platform.
The growing mobilisation has, however, exposed deeper divisions within ODM, with rival factions taking different positions on the party’s direction ahead of 2027.
Ombima’s warning therefore puts the spotlight on whether Sifuna can turn the crowds attending his rallies into a functioning political machine at the grassroots.
Political structures are particularly important in an election where parties need officials, agents and organisers across polling stations and constituencies.
Sifuna has previously indicated that Linda Mwananchi was moving into its election phase, with plans to build structured grassroots networks across the country.
A recent TIFA poll also showed strong support for the Linda Mwananchi position among ODM supporters, with 74 per cent identifying with the movement in the latest survey.
The figures could strengthen Sifuna’s argument that his growing support is more than just rally crowds.
However, Ombima’s remarks suggest that the real test will be whether that popularity can be converted into an organised nationwide campaign capable of competing for power in 2027.
The debate comes as Sifuna’s political activities continue to reshape ODM, with the senator increasingly emerging as one of the key figures in discussions about the opposition’s presidential options.