Kakamega Senator Dr Bonny Khalwale has announced that the Linda Mwananchi movement has not yet agreed on a common political party. Speaking on NTV on Monday, Khalwale stated that while the majority of leaders at the movement's Saturday retreat agreed to pursue a common political party, some members preferred to retain their existing party affiliations. This decision allows those who prefer other parties to remain part of the wider formation.
Khalwale cited himself, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and former Meru governor Kawira Mwangaza as members with existing party affiliations. Owino and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya have maintained their allegiance to their respective parties. During the meeting, Owino defended his political vehicle, while Natembeya also maintained his position, stating he was happier to stay with the United Democratic Party (UDP).
According to Khalwale, the majority of leaders agreed to proceed with a common party, but this decision did not shut the door on those who disagreed. The minority had their say, but the majority had their way. Khalwale emphasized that the movement would seek to work with parties led by Owino and Natembeya as it builds a wider political alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Linda Mwananchi movement had a retreat on Saturday, September 26, where leaders unanimously endorsed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the movement's leader and presidential flag bearer. The movement's leaders resolved to move forward together, united around a common purpose of responding to calls for better governance. They also resolved that Sifuna would lead the unveiling of the party on whose ticket he will run in early October.
Khalwale explained that the party is not an easy issue to settle because many members have affiliations to political parties. He added that after pronouncing the party, it will commence discussions with like-minded parties, with the possibility of creating a coalition. The most likely-minded parties that would start with would be Babu's party, Natembeya's party, and then they would talk about a coalition.
The uncertainty within Linda Mwananchi has been contributed to by questions over its leadership and the political vehicle. Khalwale's remarks come amid concerns over disintegration within the emerging opposition formation. The movement's leaders issued a statement after the retreat, stating they were united by a common purpose of answering the call of Kenyans seeking better governance.
The Linda Mwananchi movement is set to unveil its party in early October, with Sifuna as its presidential candidate. The movement aims to create a wider political alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election. Key players in the movement include Babu Owino, George Natembeya, and Edwin Sifuna.
Key points
- Linda Mwananchi movement has yet to settle on a single political party.
- Majority of leaders agreed to pursue a common political party, while allowing some members to retain existing party affiliations.
- Movement aims to create a wider political alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
