On October 31, 2026, Edwin Sifuna, leader of the Linda Mwananchi Movement (LMM), unveiled the party's leadership lineup. The announcement was made during the launch of the party's headquarters in Nairobi. Sifuna revealed that the party proposes to have a leader and four deputies, with one position reserved for a representative from the Coast region. Kawira Mwangaza, former Meru Governor, and Godfrey Osotsi, Vihiga Senator, are among the top leaders.
The proposed leadership lineup includes several notable figures. Mwangaza, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, and former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo are among those nominated as deputies. Osotsi has been proposed as the party's chairman, assisted by former Makadara MP Reuben Ndolo. Suba South MP Caroli Omondi has been nominated as the party's secretary general, with Pauline Njoroge as her deputy.
Other key appointments include Richard Onyonka, Kisii Senator, as national treasurer, assisted by Abigael Gikonyo. Kari Karani has been proposed as the party's director of organization and planning, while Francy Kadide takes charge of legal affairs. Caroline Mayuzu has been nominated to lead the party's women's wing, with Fredah Onduso heading the youth wing.
The party's leadership lineup also includes Torome Nalengoyo, former ODM chairman for Narok County, as the representative for special interest groups. Eunice Juma, one of the party's founders, has been proposed as the secretary for diaspora affairs, while Gilbert Shanga takes charge of international relations. Trans Nzoia MP George Natembeya has been tasked with overseeing presidential campaigns.
Sifuna revealed that the journey to establish the party has been challenging, with allegations of sabotage and violence. He cited incidents in Kitengela and Homa Bay, where party meetings were disrupted and supporters lost their lives. Despite these challenges, Sifuna expressed his commitment to creating a government that respects human rights and reduces state expenditure.
The launch of the Linda Mwananchi Movement's leadership lineup has drawn reactions from other political leaders. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka emphasized the importance of consultation among opposition leaders before choosing a presidential candidate. Musyoka warned that the opposition may not achieve its goals without a unified candidate.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has thrown his weight behind Sifuna, citing his potential to lead the party to victory. The party's leadership lineup is set to be ratified during a national delegates' conference on November 13, 2026. The conference will pave the way for Sifuna's formal nomination as the party's presidential candidate.
Key points
- Kawira Mwangaza and Godfrey Osotsi are among the top leaders in the proposed Linda Mwananchi Movement leadership lineup.
- The party aims to reduce state expenditure and promote human rights.
- The opposition is yet to unify behind a single presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
