Kigame: ‘Mimi Ndio Sifuna’ is not a helpful mantra to anchor Kenya’s liberation
By Faith Lagat, February 22, 2026Reuben Kigame has criticised the growing use of the slogan “Mimi ndio Sifuna” and its variations, cautioning against personality-driven politics amid rising momentum around the “Sisi ni Sifuna” movement.
In a post shared on X dated February 22, 2026, Kigame expressed admiration for leaders associated with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, for continuing what he described as a legacy of advocacy and opposition politics.
“I am excited to see the mentees of Baba carrying on the spirit and legacy of his work, but I must lovingly tell the movement that ‘Mimi ndio Sifuna’” with all its variations is not a helpful mantra to anchor Kenya’s liberation on.”
Kigame said the slogan risks turning political mobilisation into personality-driven activism, warning that centring rallies around an individual rather than clear policy goals could weaken the broader push for reforms associated with Edwin Sifuna and his allies.
He argued that liberation efforts should prioritise protecting ordinary citizens and advancing concrete agendas, stressing that movements lose direction when “we the people” are not placed at the core of the political message.
“It promotes the ‘messiah syndrome’ and leaves those yawning for agenda politics dry. I wish the rallies focused more on ‘linda mwananchi.’ If ‘we the people’ are not at the centre the agenda, we will not be going anywhere,” Kigame wrote.
His remarks shift attention from personality-based slogans toward citizen-focused messaging, particularly the broader “linda mwananchi” agenda that has featured prominently in recent opposition activities.
Rise of ‘Sisi ni Sifuna’ movement
The slogan has gained traction among supporters aligned with Senator Sifuna, evolving from a personal tagline into a rallying call among sections of opposition supporters, particularly young voters. The messaging has been amplified during the ongoing Linda Mwananchi mobilisation tours held in different parts of the country.
Recent events have drawn large crowds, including rallies in Kakamega and Vihiga counties where Sifuna appeared alongside leaders such as Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka.
The gatherings have taken place amid heightened political tensions and competing narratives ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Debate over opposition direction
Kigame’s comments have added to ongoing debates over the direction of opposition politics and internal dynamics within the Orange Democratic Movement.
The discussions come at a time when political alignments and mobilisation strategies are under scrutiny, particularly following divisions linked to cooperation debates involving President William Ruto and sections of opposition leadership.