The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has called on leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement to guard against ethnic divisions and internal disagreements as debate over the group’s political direction intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a post on X on September 25, 2026, Kibwana described Linda Mwananchi as a “breath of fresh air” in Kenya’s political scene and urged its leaders to avoid allowing differences to split the movement.
His comments appeared to be directed at Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who have played prominent roles in mobilising support for the movement and in discussions over its political vehicle.
Kibwana used the biblical story of King Solomon to illustrate his warning, saying the leaders would face historical judgment if their disagreements resulted in the movement being divided.
The former governor’s intervention comes amid an ongoing debate over the political party that should carry Linda Mwananchi into the 2027 elections.
Reports have linked Babu to the Mwananchi Party, while Sifuna has been associated with efforts to use the United Democratic Party (UDP) as his political vehicle. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya said on September 24 that Sifuna would be unveiled as the UDP presidential aspirant in October.
The differences have prompted public discussion about whether the movement can maintain a common political structure as its leading figures pursue separate electoral ambitions.
Babu, however, has repeatedly rejected reports of a breakdown in his relationship with Sifuna. On September 15, he reaffirmed his support for Sifuna’s presidential ambitions, while on September 18 he described the senator as his brother and said he would continue supporting him.
The two leaders have been prominent figures within Linda Mwananchi, alongside Siaya Governor James Orengo and other opposition politicians. The movement has conducted mobilisation activities in several parts of the country, including a major Nairobi rally on September 13.
The debate over its political direction comes as opposition figures continue to discuss alliances and party arrangements ahead of the 2027 General Election.
