Linda Mwananchi Lands in Kitengela: Is Sifuna the Heir to Baba

Linda Mwananchi Kitengela
Photo Credit: Ezekiel Aming'a

Leaders speak on democratic rights, accountability and civic participation during the Linda Mwananchi Rally in Kitengela 

Residents of Kitengela turned out in large numbers on Sunday as the Nairobi senator continued to publicize his Linda Mwananchi faction. The meeting, though disrupted before it could fully proceed, was part of a broader civic outreach tour aimed at engaging citizens on governance, democratic rights, and accountability. The message delivered by Sifuna and other leaders was clear, as their remarks focused on the protection of constitutional freedoms, the need for accountability, and the importance of public participation in matters of national importance.

Why the Linda Mwananchi Rally was Held

Addressing supporters before the disruption, Senator Sifuna assured the residents that the initiative was started to provide a platform for ordinary mwananchi to be heard. He said the movement, whose composition is mainly young leaders, sought to remind leaders that political power belongs to the people, as it is enshrined in Article 1 of the constitution. According to Sifuna, public assemblies and civic forums are not acts of defiance but lawful expressions of democracy. He emphasized that Kenyans have a right to assemble peacefully and question leadership without fear or intimidation.

On Democratic Rights and Public Participation...

The senator defended the democratic space, telling the crowd that Kenya's democracy depends on citizens being free to express themselves and give dissenting views. He criticized attempts by the police to block peaceful meetings, saying such actions would derail the gains the country has made since the promulgation of the 2010 constitution. The Nairobi senator said that instead of the government using force, it should respond to the concerns raised by the citizens through dialogue.

On Accountability and Governance...

The senator insisted that elected leaders must remain answerable to the people, not only during elections but throughout their time in office. He urged the residents and the citizens to remain informed about public issues, question decisions that affect their lives, and demand transparency in governance.

Sifuna was accompanied by other leaders, including Siaya senator James Orengo, Embakasi East member of parliament Hon. Babu Owino, Vihiga senator Hon. Godfrey Osotsi, Nyamira senator Hon. Okongo Omogeni, and Kisii senator Hon. Richard Onyonka.

On Constitutionalism...

Siaya senator Hon. James Orengo reminded Kenyans that Kenya's supreme law was fought for by sweat and blood and must be protected. He said public participation, freedom of expression, and the rule of law are rights provided for by the constitution and not favors from the state. Amid the ongoing wrangles in the Orange Democratic Movement party, Orengo also warned against abandoning long-held principles for short-term political comfort, saying parties must remain anchored in the values they were formed to defend. He reminded supporters that when political parties drift away from people's struggles, they lose legitimacy. Senator Orengo's remarks were echoed by Vihiga senator Godfrey Osotsi, who called for political independence and internal discipline within the opposition ranks. He insisted on safeguarding the party identity, which is essential for maintaining credibility and trust with voters.

On Youth and Civic Awareness...

Embakasi East member of parliament Babu Owino reiterated the need for young people to be part of public affairs. He emphasized that young people's participation is essential in shaping policy and holding leaders accountable.

The rally was cut short after the police dispersed the crowd, forcing those who attended to leave. Following the incident, leaders present maintained that the meeting was peaceful, and the disruption raises questions about the right to assemble and freedom of expression. They reiterated their commitment to lawful, non-violent engagement and urged supporters not to respond with hostility.

As the Linda Mwananchi rallies continue across the country, the Kitengela stop highlighted a growing effort by the political class to reconnect with grassroots voices.