NAIROBI, Kenya- Siaya Governor James Orengo says his push for the Linda Mwananchi Movement to unite behind one political party did not succeed, but he remains committed to opposition unity and wants President William Ruto to serve only one term.
In a statement shared on Sunday, Orengo said the setback had disappointed him but had not changed his commitment to the movement’s ideals.
He said he would work with opposition leaders across the country to ensure Ruto becomes a “WANTAM president” after the August 2027 General Election.
Linda Mwananchi backs Sifuna for 2027
Orengo had advocated for the movement to use a single party as its political vehicle. That plan has given way to several party initiatives among its leaders.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was unveiled on Sunday as leader of The Equitable Party (TEP) and its presidential candidate.
He has said the party will seek to change its name to the Linda Mwananchi Movement, though that process has not been completed.
The movement’s leaders had endorsed Sifuna at a September 26 retreat.
Orengo was absent from that meeting, having previously argued that competing presidential ambitions should be resolved through a credible nomination process.
Orengo plans a separate political vehicle
Orengo has also confirmed plans to launch his own political party.
He said it would join the opposition’s effort to unseat Ruto, while maintaining that the opposition should eventually identify one presidential candidate.
The developments leave the movement’s leaders pursuing different party vehicles even as Orengo continues to call for a united opposition and a single candidate.
He has described the push for change as dependent on unity and political action.
“WANTAM” is a political slogan calling for Ruto to serve one term. Kenya’s next General Election is scheduled for August 2027.
