The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has downplayed the growing Linda Mwananchi movement, describing it as a “passing cloud” and questioning whether it has a clearly defined political agenda.
Speaking in Baringo County, Murkomen said he sympathised with some of the movement’s supporters, claiming that many had been convinced that Linda Mwananchi could eventually propel them to the presidency.
He also questioned the movement’s policy direction, arguing that its leaders had not clearly explained what they intend to achieve.
Murkomen said he felt sorry for some of the movement’s supporters, noting that many were his contemporaries who had gone to school around the same time and had made plans for their futures. He claimed they had been misled into believing that they could become President.
He further challenged the movement to explain its policies, saying that its supporters often referred to the Constitution when asked about their agenda, which he argued should not be confused with a policy platform.
The Cabinet Secretary also dismissed the movement’s momentum, suggesting that its rise had been brief and that its influence was already fading.
He made the remarks during an interdenominational church service held at the AIC Visha Oshwal Comprehensive School grounds in Kabarnet, Baringo County.
Murkomen’s comments come as attention continues to focus on Linda Mwananchi, with leaders linked to the movement rejecting reports of internal disagreements.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi recently insisted that leaders associated with the movement remained united, despite reports of divisions.
Osotsi accused the government of attempting to create disagreements within Linda Mwananchi, arguing that such efforts would not succeed.
He maintained that key figures within the movement were still working together despite reports of tensions among different factions and their supporters.
Osotsi cited Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as leaders who, according to him, continued to speak with a common voice.
The comments come amid increased attention on the political relationship between Sifuna and Babu, whose supporters have recently exchanged criticism.
Sifuna has become one of the prominent figures associated with Linda Mwananchi and has intensified his efforts to mobilise support across the country.
Babu, who has a significant political following in Nairobi, has similarly presented himself as an important figure in attempts to create a broader opposition alliance.
The reported differences have prompted discussion about whether competing political interests could make it more difficult for the opposition to establish a unified political platform.
Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has also weighed in, calling on Sifuna and Babu to resolve their differences and avoid actions that could divide the movement.
