Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has disclosed that he reached out to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino from the United States to address emerging internal friction within the Linda Mwananchi movement. Gachagua expressed concern over rising public spats and online hostility between supporters of the two lawmakers. He held separate telephone conversations with both Sifuna and Owino to cool down tempers and foster unity.
Gachagua made these revelations during a diaspora media engagement in Kansas. He stated that he was aware of the challenges between supporters of Sifuna and Owino, who have been trading barbs and insults online. The former Deputy President emphasized the need for unity within the Linda Mwananchi movement, particularly with regards to the movement's electoral strategy and choice of political vehicle ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua accused President William Ruto's administration and the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of actively attempting to infiltrate and destabilize the Linda Mwananchi alliance. He alleged that following a recent major rally hosted by the movement in Nairobi, government operatives were instructed to sow discord among its key leaders to neutralize its political momentum.
The former Deputy President claimed that the state has invested heavily in dividing Linda Mwananchi, with President Ruto being particularly scared of the young leaders within the movement. Gachagua urged supporters to guard against state-sponsored division and to remain united in the face of these challenges.
To address the internal friction, Gachagua revealed that he has instructed his party's Secretary-General, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, to coordinate joint dialogue sessions between Sifuna and Owino. The goal is to resolve their differences and maintain a united front ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua's efforts to unite the Linda Mwananchi movement come at a time when the country is preparing for the upcoming elections. The movement, which brings together various leaders and supporters, aims to present a strong front against other political players. Gachagua's intervention is seen as a crucial step in maintaining the movement's momentum.
The developments within the Linda Mwananchi movement have sparked interest among political observers and supporters alike. As the 2027 General Election approaches, the ability of the movement to present a united front will be crucial in determining its success. Gachagua's outreach to Sifuna and Owino is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
Key points
- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reaches out to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to address internal friction within Linda Mwananchi.
