Faith Odhiambo Drops Bombshell on Linda Mwananchi Party Plan as New Political Vehicle Takes Shape Ahead of 2027
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has confirmed that the Linda Mwananchi movement is on course to unveil a new political party before the end of 2026, in what could reshape Kenya’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Odhiambo, a prominent human rights lawyer who recently joined forces with the Edwin Sifuna-led political movement, revealed that preparations to transform Linda Mwananchi from a civic movement into a fully-fledged political party are already at an advanced stage.
Speaking during an interview aired by a local television station on Monday, July 20, 2026, she disclosed that although the political vehicle will be launched this year, it may not ultimately carry the Linda Mwananchi name.
“The party might not necessarily bear the name Linda Mwananchi, but we intend to unveil it soon, this year,” Odhiambo said.
Her remarks offer the clearest indication yet that the movement is accelerating plans to establish an independent political outfit as opposition leaders reposition themselves for the 2027 presidential contest.
Linda Mwananchi Signals Historic Split from ODM
Odhiambo’s revelation comes just days after Linda Mwananchi leaders publicly declared their intention to sever ties with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), signalling what could become one of the most significant political realignments since the last General Election.
The announcement was made during the movement’s grassroots mobilisation tour of Taita Taveta County on Saturday, July 18, where leaders addressed supporters in Mwatate, Wundanyi and Voi.
Speaking during the rallies, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, who serves as the movement’s spokesperson, said remaining within ODM was no longer tenable.
“It has now become necessary that we dissolve the bonds that we have had with the Orange Democratic Movement. It is now time to break away from ODM,” Omondi declared.
The legislator accused ODM of abandoning the ideals that once defined the party.
“ODM has betrayed not just Raila but the ideas he stood for,” he said.
Omondi also alleged that attempts were being made to frustrate the registration of the new political outfit.
“Stop telling the Registrar of Political Parties not to approve the registration of the Linda Mwananchi party,” he said while addressing President William Ruto.
The claims have not been independently verified, and no public response had been issued by the Presidency or the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties at the time of publication.
Sifuna Hints at 2027 State House Bid
The political developments come amid growing speculation over the future of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has increasingly been presented by supporters as a potential presidential contender in 2027.
During the Taita Taveta tour, Sifuna delivered an emotional speech suggesting he was ready for a bigger national role after what he described as political setbacks within ODM.
“Walingoja baba yangu Raila akufe; wakakuja wakaninyanganya kila kitu. Siku hizi siitwi SG tena, siitwi naibu wa kiranja… lakini vijana wameniita, na ninatoka kwa SG to H.E. President,” Sifuna told supporters.
The remarks have fuelled speculation that the emerging political party could eventually serve as Sifuna’s vehicle for a presidential campaign.
Western Leaders Rally Behind New Political Vehicle
The planned party has also received backing from a section of leaders from Western Kenya allied to Sifuna, who argue that the region requires a fresh political platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
Supporters say the proposed party will provide an alternative vehicle for leaders seeking to challenge President William Ruto’s administration while consolidating opposition support under a new banner.
With Faith Odhiambo now confirming that the launch is expected before the end of the year, attention will shift to whether the movement secures official registration, unveils its new identity and formally positions itself for what is shaping up to be an increasingly competitive race to State House.
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