Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has revealed why he joined the Linda Mwananchi movement, despite growing speculation linking the outfit to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political camp and the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).

Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Kang’ata said his decision was driven by the need to align himself with the aspirations of ordinary Kenyans and support a platform he believes can unite leaders across political divides.

“I have officially crossed over to Linda Mwananchi. I am a Linda person. I view Linda as the free market in Kenyan politics, where there are no barriers to entry or exit. I will discuss where I will vie later,” Kang’ata stated.

The governor said he views the movement as a vehicle for advancing key national priorities rather than personal political ambitions.

“We are in that season where people have to take a position that reflects the people’s wishes. It has nothing to do with me; it has everything to do with Kenyans. Personally, I am convinced that Linda is one entity that brings all Kenyans together. For this country to go forward, we need to put three policies ahead: manufacturing, more money for education, and healthcare. I believe Linda will grant us that opportunity to champion for those causes,” he explained.

Kang’ata also explained that his appearance alongside leaders associated with the movement in Thika was aimed at demonstrating unity among Kenyans regardless of their political affiliations or regional backgrounds.

“We need to unite as Kenyans, and there was no better opportunity for us to show that unity than Thika because I come from that region. I wanted the Linda leaders to know that whatever they are fighting for, people do appreciate it from where I come from,” he stated.

Addressing concerns about the movement’s political affiliations, Kang’ata maintained that Linda Mwananchi is not a political party but a broad-based movement that accommodates members from different parties.

“Linda is not a party; it is a movement. We have people from Wiper, Jubilee and different political parties. It is more of a pressure group. Therefore, anyone is welcome to join as long as you subscribe to the ideals of that movement,” he added.

Kanga’ta defends Sifuna’s camp

He also clarified the involvement of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying the ODM Secretary-General participates in the movement’s activities while continuing to champion his party’s agenda.

“Sifuna is not in Linda per se because he is championing the ODM cause; he is there to join other like-minded politicians to push for a Kenyan agenda,” he noted.

Kang’ata’s remarks come weeks after he announced that he would not seek re-election as Murang’a governor on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the next General Election, a move that fueled speculation about his future political plans.

Despite the announcement, he reiterated his loyalty to both UDA and President William Ruto during the remainder of his current term.

“I wish to state that when the appropriate time comes, I will not seek to defend my seat on the party’s ticket. I will, at a later stage, communicate the platform through which I will present myself to the electorate,” Kang’ata said on May 3, 2026, after meeting with President Ruto in Kandara constituency, Murang’a.

“I will continue to serve diligently in my current capacity and to cooperate with the national government in delivering development to our people.”