Residents of Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, transformed a political rally into an impromptu fundraising event on Sunday by contributing cash to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi Movement.
Supporters offered coins and small notes, ranging from Sh20 to Sh50, as they gathered around Sifuna's convoy to show their backing. Social media footage captured crowds approaching his vehicle to hand over their contributions, reflecting widespread grassroots support.
Sifuna Emphasizes People-Powered Funding
Receiving the donations, Sifuna highlighted the importance of relying on ordinary Kenyans rather than affluent individuals with vested interests. He stated, "They said one cannot be president in this country without money. I would rather be indebted to the people giving me as little as Sh10 than be indebted to one person who will give me Sh10 million."
He warned that dependence on wealthy financiers often results in compromised leadership, citing potential demands for lucrative contracts that do not benefit the public. "If you give them the job, they will not do it. They will not build any road for you," he added.
Movement Calls for Small Contributions Nationwide
Sifuna reaffirmed that the Linda Mwananchi Movement would continue to depend on modest donations from supporters across Kenya. Pauline Njoroge, a former Jubilee official, urged supporters to contribute as little as KSh10 to support the movement’s logistics and mobilization efforts.
Context: Financial Muscle Debate
This fundraising initiative follows remarks by Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, who recently questioned Sifuna's financial capacity to run a national campaign. Speaking in Kakamega County, Atwoli emphasized the need for strong financial backing and influential allies for presidential hopefuls.
Contrary to Atwoli’s view, Sifuna dismissed reliance on wealthy donors and large sums tied to political influence, insisting instead on a campaign sustained by contributions from ordinary citizens.
