Popular Kenyan disc jockey Pinto Cahill has officially announced his alignment with Senator Edwin Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi movement, marking a significant shift from the Oburu Oginga-led Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faction.
In a Facebook post on July 27, Pinto declared, "It's official. DJ Cahill is sifunated," signaling his new political affiliation alongside figures such as MP Babu Owino and Governor James Orengo.
Reasons Behind the Switch
Pinto highlighted differences between the two ODM factions, describing the Oburu-led group as relying on financial incentives to mobilize supporters. In contrast, he praised the Sifuna-led faction for attracting crowds organically, with supporters voluntarily contributing funds to their leaders.
"One group mobilises people to attend rallies and gives them money. In the other group, people come out freely in droves and give out money to the leaders. What a lovely feeling! That was an organic crowd," Pinto wrote, adding, "Aaaiiishh. Baba is still alive."
Payment Disputes with Oburu Oginga's Faction
The DJ's departure stems from frustration over alleged unpaid or minimal compensation for his services at various political events organized by the Oburu faction. Pinto listed multiple engagements across Kisumu, Migori, Narok, Nairobi, and Bondo where he was either paid as little as KSh 7,000 for transport or received no payment at all.
- Nyanza Golf Club fundraiser
- Aspirants' meeting at Royal Switz Hotel
- Kang'o ka Jaramogi event
- Kisumu Wabiro Mega Rally
At these events, Pinto claimed he provided his DJ services without appropriate remuneration, fueling his decision to join the rival faction.
Context of ODM's Internal Rift
The split within ODM has intensified recently, with the Oburu Oginga and Edwin Sifuna camps competing for legitimacy and grassroots support. Pinto's move underscores the ongoing contest for influential local personalities and mobilisers within the party.
