By Regina Hygine
The Linda Mwananchi Movement on Sunday intensified its campaign in Western Kenya, with its leaders calling on the opposition to unite behind Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as its preferred presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election.
The movement’s tour attracted large crowds across parts of Bungoma County, where opposition leaders declared Sifuna the strongest candidate to challenge President William Ruto in the next presidential election.
Supporters lined major roads as the leaders’ convoy passed through several towns, chanting pro-opposition slogans. The Western Kenya tour followed similar rallies held in Trans Nzoia County a day earlier as the movement seeks to build support across the region.
Speaking at one of the rallies, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya urged opposition parties to rally behind Sifuna, saying he is best placed to lead the coalition in the 2027 race.
“If they dish out money, you take it. I want to challenge the united opposition to stand up and say Sifuna tosha,” Natembeya said.
Siaya Governor James Orengo echoed the call, arguing that the current administration has lost public confidence and that Kenyans are looking for alternative leadership ahead of the next General Election.
Addressing supporters, Senator Sifuna suggested that a section of the opposition was considering forming a new political party, claiming the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) had abandoned its founding ideals.
“It is evident that they have sold off our party to William Ruto. Now allow us to look for a different alternative,” Sifuna told supporters.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi said any new political outfit would be inclusive and open to all Kenyans.
“That party will include everyone, including you,” Osotsi said.
The leaders also focused on preparations for the 2027 General Election, calling for a free, fair and credible electoral process. They urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to safeguard the integrity of the vote and ensure every ballot cast is protected.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino urged supporters to remain vigilant throughout the electoral process.
“Our votes will not be stolen. We will get vehicles and travel to Nairobi after casting our votes to protect them,” Babu Owino said.
The tour covered several towns, including Kiminini, Kamukuywa, Kimilili and Chwele, as the Linda Mwananchi Movement continued to popularise its agenda and mobilise grassroots support ahead of the 2027 elections.