NAIROBI, Kenya— Political temperatures are rising in Nakuru as the Linda Mwananchi faction prepares for a day-long mobilisation drive, underscoring deepening cracks within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.
The faction is set to engage supporters through a mix of religious and political events, signaling an intensifying push to reclaim influence amid an ongoing internal power struggle.
Nakuru Engagements Mark Continued Grassroots Push
According to the itinerary, the Linda Mwananchi brigade will begin with a church service at Kivumbini PAG Church in Nakuru Town East before proceeding to a political rally at Mazembe Grounds in Nakuru Town West.
The engagements are part of a broader nationwide campaign aimed at consolidating support and reinforcing the faction’s presence on the ground.
Key figures linked to the movement include James Orengo, Edwin Sifuna, and Babu Owino, all of whom have positioned themselves as defenders of the party’s original ideals.
ODM Rift Widens Over Political Direction
The latest mobilisation comes against the backdrop of a growing fallout within ODM following a controversial political alignment involving Oburu Odinga and President William Ruto.
The Linda Mwananchi faction has openly rejected the move, arguing it undermines the legacy of the party’s founding leader Raila Odinga.
Orengo, speaking after a meeting with the Luo community in Nakuru, reiterated his commitment to remain within ODM while resisting what he described as infiltration by “ill-willed” forces.
“I am in ODM to stay… and to ensure the party remains the voice of the people,” he said.
Leadership Disputes Add Fuel to Political Tensions
Internal wrangles have escalated further after ODM attempted to remove Senator Sifuna as Secretary General—a move he has rejected.
The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal has since intervened, temporarily blocking the appointment of a new Secretary General and forcing the party to reassess its leadership decisions.
This legal twist has added another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile political landscape, as factions within the party continue to battle for control.
What This Means for Kenya’s Political Landscape
The Nakuru rally is more than a routine political event—it reflects a broader realignment within one of Kenya’s most influential political parties.
With the 2027 General Election on the horizon, internal divisions within ODM could significantly reshape opposition politics and redefine alliances across the country.
For now, Linda Mwananchi appears determined to take its message directly to the people, one rally at a time.
