A Mombasa matatu operator has turned heads after rebranding a public service vehicle with the portrait of former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) secretary general Edwin Sifuna. The rebranding coincided with Sifuna's first tour of Kwale county since launching his Linda Mwananchi movement. The matatu's exterior features Sifuna's image alongside Swahili phrases, including "Na Nyinyi Ni Kina Nani," and the late former prime minister Raila Odinga's "Who Told You?" remark.
The viral image emerged at a significant moment for Sifuna's political movement. Sifuna had just completed his first visit to Kwale county, during which he emphasized the issuance of title deeds to residents. His reception in the county was described as warm, with support for the movement growing across the region. The Linda Mwananchi Movement Party was formally launched recently, and Sifuna's tour aims to build grassroots support beyond his traditional strongholds.
The photograph drew a mixed but animated response from Kenyans online. Some users predicted Sifuna would become the country's sixth president, while others expressed skepticism about the vehicle's impact on his political capital. Paul Simiyu wrote, "By December all matatus will be painted SIFUNA the 6th," while Kevin Ouma declared, "Huyo atakua rais wa wananchi, Ruto ni rais wa nchi."
Not everyone was convinced the vehicle would translate into political capital. Tim L Odhiambo raised concerns about high prices, commenting, "Alafu fare ni KSh 70 kwenda mijini badala ya KSh 50 na bado twalidandia hivyo, Sifuna the 6th." Derick Omondi was equally skeptical about the vehicle itself, writing, "Heri niibiwe na wezi ama nipigwe na mvua kuliko kupanda hii ya madwanzi."
Meanwhile, some users offered support for Sifuna's movement. Metrine Wanyosh signalled conditional support, stating, "As opposition supporters, if not Sifuna, we will vote for Kalonzo, or Gachagua, or Matiang'i. Ruto is not an option." Chris Omoto offered a more reflective take: "When your time is ripe, even the baskets will hold waters for you... go go my guy."
The matatu branding underscores the growing visibility of Sifuna's political profile ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Election. Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi movement continues to build grassroots support beyond his traditional strongholds. In other news, Sifuna declined an umbrella during a rainy political engagement in Kwale, sparking mixed reactions.
Sifuna's decision to reject the umbrella was seen as a display of humility by some, while others accused him of copying President William Ruto. The incident has sparked a renewed debate about Sifuna's leadership style and his ability to connect with ordinary Kenyans.
Key points
- The rebranding of the matatu with Sifuna's portrait has sparked mixed reactions on social media.
- Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi movement is building grassroots support ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Election.
- Sifuna's leadership style has been questioned after he declined an umbrella during a rainy political engagement.
