Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna is about to make a move that could change the face of Kenyan opposition politics. He is set to lead a mass exit from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after Luhya leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi movement resolved to front him for the 2027 presidential contest through a new political outfit. The writing has been on the wall for months, but now it seems the time has finally come.
The resolutions were made during a meeting hosted by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya at his residence in Kitale. The meeting brought together a host of leaders including Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga, Bumula MP Wamboka Wanami, among others. For ten hours, they sat and strategised, and when they emerged, the message was clear: Sifuna is their man for 2027.
The Legal Battle That Pushed Him Out
Sifuna's relationship with ODM has been on life support for months. The party's National Executive Committee first moved to remove him as Secretary-General in February 2026, citing indiscipline and conduct issues. He was accused of repeatedly contradicting party positions, skipping official meetings, and engaging in unsanctioned political activities.
Sifuna challenged his removal before the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal. In June, the tribunal ruled that he had been denied a fair hearing, noting that there was no evidence he was even notified that his conduct would be discussed during the NEC meeting. The tribunal nullified his removal but allowed the party to proceed with disciplinary proceedings.
But ODM wasn't done. In another NEC meeting at Chung'wa House chaired by National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, the party removed him again. This time, the move seemed final. Deputy Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo was installed to act in his position.
Luhya Leaders Speak With One Voice
For the Luhya community, this is about more than just one man. They see it as a fight for their rightful place in Kenya's political leadership. Senator Godfrey Osotsi put it bluntly: "If a Luhya is not on the table, we will better break that table. We are second in terms of population but we keep being told to wait".
The Luhya leaders have made it clear they are tired of being treated as junior partners. Osotsi said the orange party has become a lemon and is no longer sweet. He accused Oburu Odinga and Gladys Wanga of joining the government and abandoning the party's core ideals.
A New Party on the Horizon
The Linda Mwananchi movement now plans to unveil a new political party. The move would allow Sifuna to end the ongoing legal battle to remain as ODM secretary-general. It also threatens to cause a mass exodus from ODM ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The registration of Linda Mwananchi as a formal party has hit some snags. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties rejected its registration earlier, citing resemblance to an existing slogan – Linda Mkenya, Boresha Kenya. But Osotsi has indicated they will challenge the decision, saying it has no legal backing.
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has hinted at possible links to the newly registered United Patriotic Movement (UPM), signalling that the group is prepared to adapt quickly to meet electoral deadlines.
The Plan Going Forward
The movement has lined up two major rallies in Trans Nzoia and Bungoma on July 25 and 26. During the Bungoma rally, Sifuna is expected to be installed as the region's kingpin and blessed by elders to seek the presidency in 2027. The rally will double up as his homecoming.
Governor Natembeya has been named as the Western region's spokesperson in coordinating Sifuna's presidential campaigns. The movement plans to launch grassroots campaigns in all 38 constituencies in Western Kenya to mobilise voters.
A Wider Opposition Realignment
Sifuna's move is part of a larger political realignment. The Linda Mwananchi movement has been expanding beyond Western Kenya. Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata, who recently ditched UDA, has joined the movement. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has also thrown his weight behind the team.
The movement is also in talks with the United Opposition led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. The goal is to present a united front capable of challenging President William Ruto in 2027.
The strategy reflects a calculated attempt to transform regional discontent into national momentum. For Sifuna, the endorsement not only strengthens his standing in Western Kenya but also offers a platform to project himself as a credible alternative in the presidential race.
What This Means for ODM
ODM is facing an existential crisis. The party has been losing its soul since joining forces with President Ruto's administration. The departure of Sifuna and his allies could leave the party as a shell of its former self.
Sifuna himself has been building his own political identity beyond ODM headquarters. He has cultivated an image of a leader willing to speak his mind, even when his views spark debate within opposition circles. This has earned him credibility among younger voters who value authenticity over carefully scripted politics.
The coming months will determine whether Linda Mwananchi can solidify its place in Kenya's opposition politics and propel Sifuna into the national spotlight. One thing is certain: Kenyan politics is about to get a lot more interesting.
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