On Sunday, August 30, 2026, police deployed tear gas at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Makutano, Meru County, momentarily interrupting a gathering that featured Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and various opposition leaders.
Despite the brief disruption, the rally resumed once the air cleared, with Sifuna encouraging supporters to remain calm. “Let it be; it will pass. Tear gas will never end the Linda Mwananchi meeting,” he assured the crowd as canisters landed nearby.
This incident occurred amidst the Linda Mwananchi movement’s ongoing grassroots mobilization efforts leading up to the 2027 General Election.
Sifuna took the opportunity to critique President William Ruto’s 2022 campaign messaging and urged Kenyans to rally behind the opposition. “Your 2022 plan has led us into a pit, as Kenyans. Ruto, take your time to understand that Kenyans want to live freely,” he stated.
He also highlighted the opposition’s “Wantam” slogan as a counter to Ruto’s “hustler” campaign. “The remedy for fire is fire. While you were out promoting hustler, we are here singing Wantam. The people have awakened and are demanding that this individual must go home,” Sifuna declared.
The Meru gathering was organized by former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, who endorsed Sifuna for the 2027 presidential race. Other attendees included Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and various leaders affiliated with Linda Mwananchi.
Repeated disruptions have challenged the movement, with the Meru incident following a series of disturbances at Linda Mwananchi events nationwide. On August 29, Siaya Governor James Orengo faced tear gas at an engagement in Migori, where a vehicle from his convoy was later set ablaze in Awendo.
Previously, an August 16 tour of Homa Bay was marred by roadblocks, burning tires, and attacks on the entourage, resulting in two fatalities, including a police officer.
Linda Mwananchi meetings in other regions have also encountered security challenges. In July, youth stoned a convoy on the Kisii-Keroka road, damaging several vehicles, including one carrying former Chief Justice David Maraga.
The Meru rally commenced with supporters presenting Sifuna with agricultural produce, such as yams, maize, cassava, and potatoes. Additionally, they gifted him a gas cylinder bearing a message urging Ruto to resign.
Mwangaza had previously sought security assurances before the movement’s activities in the county, citing potential disruptions in parts of Igembe.
Although the tear gas incident momentarily halted proceedings, the rally continued with renewed vigor.
Sifuna and fellow opposition leaders remain committed to grassroots mobilization as political parties and alliances prepare for the 2027 General Election. The Linda Mwananchi movement is dedicated to expanding its influence across the nation, with its leaders persisting in public engagements despite recent disruptions.
