During the Linda Mwananchi movement's tour in Western Kenya, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was unexpectedly handed numerous cash donations by residents in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
The event occurred as Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya addressed a large crowd and Sifuna stood atop his brigade vehicle. Supporters approached from multiple directions, placing cash into the senator’s hands, which quickly became full. Sifuna smiled in surprise at the outpouring of grassroots support.
This moment underscored the movement’s commitment to being funded by ordinary Kenyans rather than wealthy political financiers. Sifuna shared that the Linda Mwananchi paybill had raised Ksh3 million in under three days, mostly from small contributions by everyday citizens.
Key points from Sifuna’s speech included:
- Rejection of large donations from affluent individuals who expect favors in return.
- Refusal of a Ksh1 billion fundraising offer from COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, emphasizing independence from "dirty money."
- Reference to the Ol Kalou by-election as evidence that money alone does not guarantee electoral success.
The Kiminini stop was part of a broader Western Kenya tour, with the movement proceeding to Bungoma for a major rally at Posta Grounds. Linda Mwananchi aims to mobilize support nationwide ahead of the 2027 General Election while maintaining a people-powered funding model.
