Nandi Senator Samson Kiprotich Cherargei has accused the Linda Mwananchi movement of using artificially generated images to exaggerate the size of their rally in Bungoma. The senator made the allegations on July 26, 2026, following the movement's major gathering at Posta Grounds, Bungoma.
In a social media post, Cherargei asserted that the photos circulating from the event were AI-generated and aimed at convincing former President Uhuru Kenyatta that the movement had garnered significant political traction. He further suggested that the public fundraising efforts by Linda Mwananchi were a facade to conceal financial backing from Uhuru Kenyatta, including claims of cash exchanges at Wilson Airport's private wing.
Despite these serious allegations, Cherargei did not present any technical evidence to substantiate the claim that the images were artificially created.
Linda Mwananchi Rally Draws Political Heavyweights
The Bungoma event marked the conclusion of Linda Mwananchi's Western Kenya tour, which included stops in Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties. The rally attracted key opposition figures such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
At Posta Grounds, the leaders criticized President William Ruto's administration and accused the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership of deviating from the party's founding principles following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Videos from the tour showed large crowds lining the streets as the convoy passed through towns including Kitale, Kiminini, Kamukuywa, Kimilili, and Chwele.
Ongoing Political Disputes and Funding Questions
Cherargei's claims echo similar accusations he made in April regarding photos from a Linda Mwananchi event in Kisumu. The senator has repeatedly questioned the authenticity of the movement’s crowd sizes and alleged undisclosed financial support from Uhuru Kenyatta, a charge the Linda Mwananchi leadership denies.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna insists the movement is funded by ordinary Kenyans through public contributions via a paybill number. The debate over Linda Mwananchi’s funding has intensified political tensions, especially among Kenya Kwanza coalition members suspicious of the movement’s financial sources.
Political Rift Following Raila Odinga’s Death
The rally also highlighted internal opposition dynamics after Raila Odinga's passing. Sifuna urged ODM supporters to accept his pursuit of an alternative political direction, emphasizing his loyalty to Raila and his commitment to preserving the party. Governor Orengo lamented ODM's loss of identity amid internal conflicts, while Governor Natembeya warned Nyanza voters against aligning with President Ruto.
