Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has sharply criticized the Linda Mwananchi movement, accusing its leadership of sidelining the Gen Z-led push for accountability before attempting to reposition themselves as advocates for ordinary Kenyans.

In a statement released on July 28, 2026, Salasya questioned the movement's credibility, pointing out that some of its key figures had previously supported the broad-based government arrangement and dismissed young Kenyans' calls for improved governance.

He challenged their sudden transformation:

  • "Are we expected to forget past actions just because the political narrative has shifted?" Salasya asked.
  • "Those who once opposed the Gen Z demand for better governance and endorsed the broad-based government now want to rebrand as champions of wananchi. This is a significant turnaround."

Saalasya further stated that he remained skeptical about their intentions and urged the Linda Mwananchi leadership to formally join the wider opposition coalition rather than operate independently.

"Linda Mwananchi can keep its slogans. I will only take their message seriously when they stop political gymnastics and join the United Opposition," he said, emphasizing the need for unity ahead of the 2027 General Election.

This critique follows a series of Salasya’s previous calls for the movement to abandon what he terms 'parallel opposition politics' and unite with other anti-government groups to form a consolidated front against President William Ruto.

Recently, Linda Mwananchi leaders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, conducted rallies in Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties as part of their intensified grassroots mobilization.

The movement maintains that it is constructing a people-centred political alternative focused on governance reforms, accountability, and issue-based leadership ahead of the next elections.

Gen Z Legacy Continues to Influence Political Debate

The Gen Z protests of 2024 remain a pivotal reference point in Kenya’s political landscape, with opposition groups invoking the movement’s demands for transparency, accountability, and economic reforms.

However, internal disagreements persist regarding who genuinely represents these aspirations. Salasya insists that leaders who once supported the broad-based government must first explain their past stances before rallying voters under new political banners.

His remarks are expected to fuel ongoing discussions about opposition fragmentation and the necessity for a united front to challenge President Ruto in the upcoming elections.