Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has firmly rejected the proposed leadership structure for the soon-to-be-launched Linda Mwananchi party, as recently suggested by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
During an engaging interview with Western Kenya media on Friday, July 24, 2026, Sifuna, the dynamic leader of the Linda Mwananchi movement, addressed the speculation, emphasizing that it is common for individuals to attempt to shape the party to serve their own interests. However, he stressed that no one has the authority to dictate the party’s leadership prior to thorough consultations.
He stated, “As the Swahili say, every rock pulls the drum towards itself, and I too can go on a podcast to declare who will lead the party. However, Linda Mwananchi will not be a choir; it will be broad-based, allowing everyone to voice their opinions. We will come together and reach a consensus.”
Sifuna affirmed that the movement will determine its leadership at the appropriate time, highlighting the importance of collective decision-making regarding the various positions within the party. He reiterated that the Linda Mwananchi party will embody democratic values, ensuring that leaders emerge through consultation and consensus rather than imposition.
“When the right moment arrives, we will convene and agree on who holds each position because this party will be democratic, not dictatorial,” Sifuna assured.
In light of these statements, it’s important to note that Babu Owino recently outlined his envisioned leadership structure for the Linda Mwananchi party ahead of its official launch. He proposed that he would assume the role of party leader, with Siaya Governor James Orengo as the party patron. Additionally, Owino suggested that the secretary-general position would be filled by a leader from Western Kenya, while the chairperson would come from either the Central or Coast region to ensure regional representation.
“We have our father Orengo, who will be the party patron… This party will represent people from the Coast, Central Region, North Eastern, and all ethnic groups. This is not a regional party; it is a national party,” he declared.
Owino also mentioned that the deputy party leader has already been identified through the Linda Mwananchi Movement, although he chose not to disclose the individual’s identity.
In a related development, former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has indicated that the Linda Mwananchi movement is set to evolve into a political party by the end of the year. During an interview on a local media outlet on Monday, July 20, 2026, Odhiambo, a prominent human rights advocate who has recently joined forces with Sifuna, revealed that plans for this transformation are in progress.
She noted that while the party might undergo some changes before its official launch, it may not retain the name Linda Mwananchi. “The party might not necessarily bear the name Linda Mwananchi, but we are committed to unveiling it soon, this year,” she stated.
