Sifuna: Ruto can’t defeat Linda Mwananchi in Luo Nyanza
By Mabonga Makhanu, July 21, 2026Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has dismissed the broad-based government’s influence in Luo Nyanza, insisting that the Linda Mwananchi movement enjoys greater popularity in the region than President William Ruto.
Speaking during an interview with local media stations on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, the outspoken former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) secretary-general argued that the region has rejected the “Tutam” mantra and instead embraces the “Wantam” slogan.
Sifuna defended the growing influence of the Linda Mwananchi movement, citing the massive crowds that attended its recent rally in Kisumu. He maintained that the turnout was organic and demonstrated that residents of Luo Nyanza are firmly behind the movement and do not want President Ruto to secure a second term.
“Hata uko Luo Nyanza, you will be very surprised; hakuna mtashangaa sana. Hakuna vile Ruto atashinda linda mwanachi huko Luo Nyanza; hiyo mambo ya tutam ni propaganda,” Sifuna argued.
Infotrak ratings
His remarks come just days after an Infotrak popularity rating comparing the Linda Mwananchi movement and the Oburu Odinga-led faction in Luo Nyanza. According to the poll, Linda Mwananchi garnered 73 per cent support, while the Oburu faction shared the remaining percentage.
Following the survey, leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi movement vowed to expand their influence beyond ODM’s traditional strongholds. They said they would begin making inroads into regions such as Mt Kenya, arguing that they have already outperformed their rivals in Luo Nyanza and are now ready to widen their political appeal ahead of the 2027 General Election.
This comes days after the Linda Mwananchi movement announced plans to formally break away from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), marking a new chapter in the opposition’s political reorganisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Linda Mwananchi ODM breakaway
The announcement was made during the movement’s grassroots tour of Taita Taveta County on Saturday, July 18, 2026, where leaders addressed supporters in Mwatate, Wundanyi, and Voi.
Speaking during the tour, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, who also doubles up as the outfit’s spokesperson, said the movement had reached a point where it could no longer remain within ODM.
“It has now become necessary that we dissolve the bonds that we have had with the party Orange Democratic Movement. It is now time to break away from ODM,” Omondi declared.