How Linda Mwananchi rewrote the political script with first rally in Nairobi

As Linda Mwananchi embarked on its maiden rally in Nairobi in a bid to rally supporters behind its bid to send President William Ruto home, the stakes were high with Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino and James Orengo leading the charges backed by a host of politicians across the country.

The team rose above initial fears of the event descending in chaos and led its supporters in a peaceful procession that turned the streets of Nairobi into a vibrant display of colour, energy and political mobilisation.

Law and order found its place with the crowd accompanying the leaders maintaining peace amid heavy security deployment at strategic points and along major roads in the city and patrolling the streets.

With the police having issued a statement banning political rallies in the Central Business District, the entourage made its way from All Saints Cathedral, passing through Uhuru Park and joining Uhuru Highway then on to Haile Sellassie Avenue as the crowd swelled in size.

Babu Owino was heard praising police officers who exercised their lawful duties without interfering with the sea of humanity that turned up and accompanied the leaders as they made their way to Jacaranda Grounds, with several stopovers.

The team set an example of how politics can be conducted with civility and with law enforcement agencies playing their role in maintaining law and order, and that tear gas, chaos and goons have no place in politics.

That the political landscape is changing and Linda Mwananchi is determined to make its presence and influence felt was not in doubt.

As politicians delivered fiery speeches that conveyed their resolve and ambitions, what unfolded at the rally was more than a routine political gathering as supporters turned out in large numbers, transforming the event into a striking spectacle that showcased the movement’s growing visibility and ambitions.

With chants, colourful displays and an unmistakable sense of political excitement, the rally offered a glimpse into a changing political landscape—and a movement determined to make its presence felt.

Taking aim at President William Ruto’s record and reflecting on the economic situation in the country, Sifuna took a swipe at the Kenya Kwanza regime as he sought the support of voters while indicating his every intention to go for the top seat.

Sifuna said that Kenyans have been urging him to go for a particular seat in the 2027 election and put the question to the crowd with a resounding approval that he should go for the top seat.

“People in other parts want to take me to a certain job. Do you also want me to take that job?” Sifuna asked the crowd during one of the roadside rallies, indicating his intention to go for the top seat.

He appreciated that the task ahead should he pursue the ambition is a monumental one that requires a united opposition.

“It will not be easy. We must walk together with Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua and all other leaders in the opposition. Let us walk together,” Sifuna said.

Contrary to some instances in the past where politicians have blamed the police for disrupting their rallies by firing tear gas canisters, today's event was conducted in a way that saw the police earn praise from Sifuna.

“Nataka nishukuru jeshi la polisi Nairobi leo kwa sababu leo wametupa ulinzi, hawajatutupia tear gas. (I want to praise the police service in Nairobi today because they have offered all of us protection. They haven’t tear-gassed us),” he said.

Exuding confidence of snatching victory early when Kenyans go to the ballot, leaders including George Natembeya and James Orengo said that they would adopt effective strategies to thwart any electoral theft.