A group of elders from Vihiga County has officially exited the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to support Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and the Linda Mwananchi movement. The move signals shifting political alliances in Western Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Led by Fred Omido, chairman of the Vihiga Elders Council and former Bahati MP, the elders praised Sifuna for his courage and consistency, describing him as the leader best suited to unite the region and restore its political influence nationally.

"We stand with our son Sifuna because he has shown the willingness to speak for ordinary Kenyans. Western Kenya needs a fearless leader," Omido stated.

The endorsement follows Sifuna’s active campaign tour across Western Kenya counties including Trans Nzoia and Bungoma, where he seeks to challenge the dominance of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula.

During a Bungoma rally, some elders also named Sifuna the Luhya community spokesman, with support led by former Cabinet minister Musikari Kombo.

Dr Job Osiako, representing the Vihiga elders, explained their departure from ODM was due to internal party conflicts and a perceived drift away from its founding principles, particularly after Sifuna was removed as ODM Secretary General.

"ODM no longer represents the aspirations of many in this region. Linda Mwananchi offers hope, accountability, and a new political direction," Osiako said.

The elders noted that Sifuna’s removal from ODM leadership increased his popularity, with many viewing the move as unjust. Sifuna has challenged his ouster in court, citing constitutional violations within the party.

At rallies in Bungoma and Kitale, Sifuna urged ODM to allow dissenting members to join other parties, positioning Linda Mwananchi as a fresh opposition platform drawing leaders from Western Kenya and beyond.

Tiriki elder Oscar Bulemi declared ODM politically defunct in Western Kenya and called on residents to support Sifuna’s movement through votes and funding.

Patrick Ongaya emphasized the region’s long wait to produce a president and called for unity behind leaders capable of mounting a credible presidential campaign.

Political analysts view Sifuna’s Western Kenya tour as a crucial test of his ability to build a strong political base to rival established leaders allied with President William Ruto’s re-election, while promoting a Luhya presidential candidate in 2027.

Political Implications

  • The elders’ endorsement reflects growing contestation for leadership in Western Kenya.
  • It highlights internal ODM divisions and debates over cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza government.
  • The main challenge for Sifuna is to transform symbolic support into a cohesive grassroots movement ahead of the 2027 polls.