The Linda Mwananchi movement on Saturday took its grassroots mobilisation campaign to Western Kenya, with a high-powered delegation of political leaders storming Kitale in Trans Nzoia County to rally residents around a message of accountability, economic justice and citizen empowerment.
The Kitale tour, which attracted hundreds of residents, formed part of the movement’s broader strategy to build a national political conversation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, the delegation traversed parts of Trans Nzoia before holding a major public rally in Kitale town, where leaders accused the government of failing to adequately address the challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
The team began its engagements with stopovers at Moi’s Bridge and Sibanga before proceeding to Kitale, where residents gathered to listen to the leaders’ message.
Among those who joined the tour were Siaya Governor James Orengo, former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza and former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale.
The delegation was also joined by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who welcomed the movement’s leaders to the county and participated in the public engagements.
Addressing the crowd in Kitale, Sifuna said the Linda Mwananchi initiative was about placing citizens at the centre of national decision-making.
“This is not about leaders talking to citizens. This is about citizens reclaiming their rightful place in determining the direction of their country,” Sifuna told the gathering.
He said Kenyans were facing difficult economic realities and demanded a political conversation focused on improving livelihoods rather than personalities.
“The biggest issue facing Kenyans today is the struggle to survive. People want food on the table, affordable healthcare, jobs for young people and leadership that listens,” he said.
Governor Natembeya said Western Kenya was ready to engage in conversations that placed development and accountability above political divisions.
“The people of this region want leaders who understand their problems and are willing to stand with them. Politics must be about service and improving lives,” Natembeya said.
Governor Orengo challenged Kenyans to remain vigilant in protecting democratic gains, arguing that citizens must actively participate in shaping the country’s future.
“A democracy cannot survive when citizens surrender their voice. The power of a nation belongs to its people,” Orengo said.
Faith Odhiambo urged Kenyans to demand accountability from those entrusted with public resources, saying good governance remained central to the country’s progress.
“Leadership is a responsibility. Those holding public offices must always remember that power belongs to the people,” she said.
The Kitale rally also provided a platform for leaders to criticise the rising cost of living, unemployment and what they described as declining public trust in institutions.
Senator Osotsi said the movement was seeking to build a platform that responds to everyday struggles faced by citizens.
“Politics must move away from promises made during elections and focus on practical solutions that improve the lives of Kenyans,” he said.
The Western Kenya tour comes at a time when political formations are intensifying grassroots activities ahead of the 2027 polls. The region remains a key political battleground because of its significant voter population and historical influence in presidential elections.
For Sifuna and his allies, the Kitale visit was an opportunity to test the movement’s appeal outside its traditional strongholds and establish networks across the country.
The delegation is expected to continue with similar engagements in other parts of Western Kenya, including Bungoma, as Linda Mwananchi seeks to expand its footprint and position itself as a national citizens’ movement.
