Irungu Kang’ata displays ‘Wantam’ symbol as he arrives for Linda Mwananchi rally in Kisii
By Mabonga Makhanu, July 3, 2026Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has showcased the Wantam symbol after storming the Linda Mwananchi rally in Kisii.
The governor, while accompanying Linda Mwananchi team leader Edwin Sifuna during the movement’s initial stopover in Kitutu Chache South on Friday, July 3, 2026, appeared in high spirits as they made a grand entrance for the first event, where they are set to conduct a fundraiser aimed at empowering women.
This comes days after the governor left many tongues wagging by joining the movement during its rally in Kivulini, Thika, where he announced his allegiance to the Sifuna-led movement.
Kang’ata also declared that he had parted ways with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the party that sponsored his successful gubernatorial bid.
Kang’ata ditches UDA Party
The governor stated that UDA, which was once the party of choice for many Kenyans, especially in the run-up to the 2022 general election, has since lost its influence and is no longer enjoying the popularity it once had. He attributed this to several political decisions made by President William Ruto’s administration, saying they had made both the president and his party unpopular, particularly in the Mt. Kenya region.
Kang’ata also advised Edwin Sifuna to hold talks with Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, arguing that the movement would not go far without engaging influential regional leaders since, according to him, Kenyan politics is largely local.
The Linda Mwananchi movement is scheduled to hold four more stopovers across the Gusii region. After Kitutu Chache South, the team is expected to proceed to Keroka Town, Keumbu, before culminating the day’s activities with a major rally in Kisii Town.
The movement has also expressed fears that goons could be deployed to disrupt its activities, alleging that a senior Kisii political leader is behind the alleged plans.
Maraga joins Linda Mwananchi?
Before attending the rally, Maraga held a meeting with a section of Linda Mwananchi leaders, including Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Governor Irungu Kang’ata.
The meeting has fueled speculation over whether Maraga is on the verge of formally joining the movement or had only attended the day’s activities as a guest.
“I was pleased to host Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Senator Godfrey Osotsi in Kisii ahead of the Linda Mwananchi events in Kisii and Nyamira tomorrow,” Maraga stated.
The Kisii tour is also seen as a strategic attempt by the Linda Mwananchi movement to win support in the Gusii region, an area that has traditionally backed the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in previous elections.