Sifuna returns to Trans Nzoia, Bungoma for major tour

Nairobi Senator and Linda Mwananchi movement leader Edwin Sifuna is expected to embark on a political tour of the Western region later this month, with rallies planned in Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties to popularise his presidential bid ahead of the 2027 General Election.

‎Local leaders loyal to the senator disclosed that arrangements for the planned tour are in top gear.  Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, a close ally of Sifuna, said the first rally will be held in Trans Nzoia County on July 25, followed by a mega rally in Bungoma town on July 26, where the Linda Mwananchi leader is expected to declare his intention to contest the presidency officially.

‎Wamboka says that the Bungoma meeting will serve as a significant political milestone, providing Sifuna with an opportunity to formally unveil his presidential ambition before supporters from across the Western region while seeking to consolidate support from the vote-rich bloc.

to declare his intention to contest the presidency officially

‎"Our Bungoma mega rally will offer a platform for our presidential candidate to declare and announce to the people of the Western region that he is firmly in the presidential race," said the lawmaker.

‎He has exuded confidence that Sifuna possesses the leadership qualities needed to steer the country forward, citing his achievements as senator.  "Sifuna has demonstrated courage, consistency and the ability to articulate issues affecting ordinary Kenyans and there is no doubt he fits the bill."

‎According to Wamboka, the entire country has witnessed Sifuna's leadership abilities.  "We believe he has what it takes to vie for the highest office and lead this country as a President," he said.

‎He further confided that the Linda Mwananchi team has been engaging citizens in different parts of the country and that the reception they have received indicates growing support for Sifuna's candidature.

‎"We have moved around the country and we can confirm that Sifuna is loved and accepted by many Kenyans to become our next President. We have presented him to the Kenyan people and we believe the time has come for the Western region to rally behind one of its own," said Wamboka.

‎The Bumula legislator also took a swipe at National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, dismissing his long-held presidential ambitions, alleging that the Ford Kenya leader has repeatedly talked about contesting for the country's top seat without following through.

‎"Wetang'ula has for many years been telling us he will vie for the presidency but every election cycle he changes course. Leaders who served alongside him in Parliament have risen to higher offices while he continues talking about the presidency. This time our own candidate must be on the ballot," Wamboka stated.

‎The MP has warned individuals allegedly planning to disrupt the Bungoma rally, saying organisers have already begun grassroots consultations to ensure the events proceed peacefully and successfully.

‎"We have already started hosting delegations from the constituency level to plan how the rally will be conducted. We want everything to be orderly, peaceful and successful," he said.

‎On the Linda Mwananchi movement funding, Wamboka dismissed claims that the opposition outfit was being financed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

‎He maintained that the movement relies on voluntary contributions from ordinary Kenyans who support its political agenda.

‎"Our rallies are not funded heavily like those of the government. On average, we spend about Sh200, 000 to organise a rally because wananchi contribute towards these activities. Our agenda is simple: to ensure President William Ruto serves only one term so that Kenyans can elect a leader who will transform the country," he said.

‎The legislator further dismissed assertions that Sifuna lacks the financial muscle to mount a successful presidential campaign, insisting that leadership should be determined by public support rather than wealth.

‎"Those saying Sifuna does not have money to campaign still have the old KANU mentality where leadership was associated with wealth. Leadership is about the people, not money," Wamboka said.

‎He compared Sifuna's political journey to that of the late Michael Kijana Wamalwa, arguing that despite being underestimated by his political opponents, Wamalwa rose to become one of the country's most influential leaders.

‎"Even in those days, Wetang'ula used to despise Kijana Wamalwa, but Wamalwa emerged victorious and earned the trust of Kenyans. The same can happen with Sifuna," he added.

‎Wamboka has cautioned leaders against what he termed attacks on retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, urging them to focus on presenting their development agenda rather than engaging in political confrontations.