Sifuna holds a Mega Rally at Kakamega as rival Group emerge
On February 21, 2026, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna led a major "Linda Mwananchi" rally at Amalemba Grounds in Kakamega County.
The event drew massive crowds and was attended by key figures from a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Godfrey Osotsi, Caleb Amisi, Anthony Kibagendi and Majimbo Kalasinga among other key leaders.
The rally was part of the "Linda Mwananchi" campaign tour, focusing on issues like the high cost of living, taxation, governance, and defending ODM's independence amid internal party tensions.
Supporters processed through Kakamega town before gathering at the grounds, with reports describing a "sea of humanity" and high energy.
The event faced disruptions:
Tear gas was lobbed into the crowd, briefly interrupting Sifuna's speech, but the rally resumed after the crowd regrouped and controlled the situation.
There were incidents involving suspected goons (some reportedly from outside the area, like Nandi), with youths seizing individuals and, in one case, forgiving a disruptor through prayer.
A rival group emerged, with supporters wearing "TUTAM" branded reflector jackets and T-shirts, publicly aligning with President William Ruto and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa.
Some youths burned these items during the event, and there were reports of attacks on rival sound trucks.
This highlights deepening divisions in ODM:
Sifuna's faction (often called the "Linda Mwananchi" or rebel group) opposes continued cooperation with the government.
A rival camp aligns with Oburu Odinga (Raila Odinga's brother) and others supporting the current party direction or government ties.
Police had claimed that they weren't officially notified (though Sifuna said they were), leading to heavy presence and tension in Kakamega town ahead of the event.
The rally appeared successful in mobilizing supporters, with chants like "Sisi ndio Sifuna" (We are Sifuna) and placards supporting him for future leadership.
It underscores ongoing power struggles in ODM as factions position for influence ahead of 2027 elections.

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