Orengo and Sifuna Dismiss Claims of Divisions in Linda Mwananchi Movement
Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna have dismissed claims of divisions within the Linda Mwananchi movement, saying the alliance remains united and committed to representing the interests of ordinary citizens.
They made the remarks during a Sunday service at St Stephen ACK Cathedral in Kisumu. Speaking at the service, Orengo rejected suggestions that the Linda Mwananchi movement was weakening, saying it would not be divided by internal disagreements or external pressure.
He said the group remained focused on justice and accountability. He also criticised ODM leaders who have supported President William Ruto’s broad-based political arrangement, accusing them of abandoning the party’s founding principles.
Orengo described the removal of Sifuna as ODM Secretary-General as a serious mistake, arguing that the party had replaced strong leadership with a weaker alternative. He urged Sifuna to remain committed, saying many party members continued to support him despite the leadership changes.
Sifuna also stressed that the movement remained united and said his removal from the ODM leadership would not affect his political future. He said Linda Mwananchi would continue to resist attempts to create divisions among its members.
He thanked Kisumu residents for their support during a difficult period and said the political relationship between the Nyanza and Western regions remained strong despite changing alliances. Orengo also raised concerns about the growing practice of politicians making large cash donations at public events.
He said the amounts being distributed often exceeded what could reasonably be expected from official salaries and should therefore be subject to scrutiny. Drawing on his legal experience, he said unexplained wealth is routinely investigated by the Kenya Revenue Authority and argued that public officials should be held to the same standard.
He added that Raila Odinga had previously raised the issue with President Ruto and called for restraint in such public displays of wealth. He said the increasing use of large cash handouts at rallies and empowerment programmes raised important questions about transparency and accountability.
Orengo argued that leaders should prioritise investment in sustainable development projects instead of short-term financial giveaways. He said public officials should be prepared to account for the source of their wealth.
