The opposition’s Linda Mwananchi Tour heads to the Gusii region on Friday, July 3, 2026, with leaders expected to hold a series of engagements in Kisii and Nyamira counties as political activity ahead of the 2027 General Election gathers momentum.

Siaya Governor James Orengo rallied supporters ahead of the tour through a post on X on July 2, writing: “Abanto bane BaGusii, ankio ngochande! Tonyorane BOSONGO na NYAMIRA!” The message invited residents of Kisii and Nyamira to attend the planned events.

The day’s programme includes a 10 am meeting with women leaders at Monarch Mosocho, a 1 pm rally in Kisii Town, a 3 pm stop in Keumbu and a 4 pm meeting in Keroka. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other opposition leaders are expected to join Orengo during the tour.

Former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo also mobilised supporters through a post on X, saying: “Abanto baminto bagusii!! Let’s meet tomorrow early!”

The leaders are expected to address governance, the cost of living, economic challenges and constitutional rights during the public engagements.

Gusii, a political battleground

The opposition’s decision to campaign in the Gusii region comes as political parties continue positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

The region has traditionally been associated with ODM under former Prime Minister Raila Odinga but has recently attracted increased attention following the emergence of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as an opposition figure.

The tour follows recent meetings involving Matiang’i and several opposition leaders, including Babu Owino, Richard Onyonka and Orengo, as discussions on broader political cooperation continue.

Government allies have also stepped up their engagements in the region.

South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro recently questioned Matiang’i’s presidential bid, arguing that the former Interior Cabinet Secretary should instead work with President William Ruto to support development in Kisii and Nyamira counties.

The remarks reflect the growing political competition for influence in the Gusii region, with both the government and opposition seeking to strengthen their support ahead of the next General Election.

Opposition leaders project unity

Recent opinion polls have shown continued political realignments as parties prepare for 2027.

A TIFA Research survey indicated that a Kalonzo Musyoka-Fred Matiang’i ticket enjoys significant support among opposition supporters, while President Ruto continues to lead in the overall national preference ratings. The survey also showed the number of undecided voters declining.

Speaking during previous engagements, Sifuna claimed that some elected leaders privately support the Linda Mwananchi movement but have not publicly declared their position.

The movement has also attracted support from several political figures, including former LSK President Faith Odhiambo and former Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter.

Babu Owino has dismissed reports of divisions within the movement, saying its leaders remain focused on issues affecting Kenyans.

“We are all principals in Linda Mwananchi,” he said.

The Gusii tour is expected to provide another platform for opposition leaders to present their agenda while strengthening their presence in one of the country’s politically significant regions.

With political activity increasing across the country, both the opposition and Kenya Kwanza continue to intensify grassroots mobilisation as the race towards the 2027 General Election gradually takes shape.