Sifuna, Babu Owino, Orengo Lead Opposition to Registration of 'Linda Mwananchi' as Political Party

Through their advocates at Henia Anzala & Associates, the group has written to the Registrar of Political Parties objecting to the move initiated by Charles Wanyonyi, an individual they claim has no affiliation with their movement. The opposition letter highlights concerns that approving the registration could allow misuse of the faction's name, images, and public goodwill to fraudulently secure financing from members of the public or other entities, describing it as a potential act of conmanship and urging the Registrar to decline the application outright.

The controversy stems from deepening rifts inside ODM, where the Linda Mwananchi faction—comprising vocal critics of the party's direction, including Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, and others—advocates for a "one term" narrative and rejects closer ties with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). This contrasts with the rival Linda Ground faction, aligned with ODM figures like Dr. Oburu Oginga, which supports a broad-based arrangement and potential coalition with UDA. The application to reserve and register the name has triggered suspicion and speculation, with some viewing it as a possible hostile takeover or attempt to lock the popular grassroots movement out of using its own branding amid ongoing ideological splits and nationwide rallies by both sides.

The Registrar of Political Parties is required under the Political Parties Act to publish notices in the Kenya Gazette and national newspapers to invite public objections, placing the process under formal scrutiny. While no final decision has been reported as of March 4, 2026, the faction's swift response underscores their determination to protect the movement's identity and momentum. This development further exposes ODM's internal divisions, as the Linda Mwananchi group continues to mobilize support through grassroots tours while insisting that their strength lies in their message and people-centered agenda rather than formal party registration at this stage.