Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has joined the Linda Mwananchi movement and is tipped for its treasurer’s position, shifting his political alignment as opposition leaders prepare for the 2027 General Election.
Onyonka downplayed suggestions that his decision amounted to abandoning former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, saying he was joining the movement with the former CS’s blessings. Matiang’i had not publicly confirmed the claim by the time of publication.
The move comes ahead of Linda Mwananchi’s planned launch in Nairobi on Friday, October 30, as the group seeks to establish a formal political party and build its structures before the next election.
Onyonka’s political shift places him alongside Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has emerged as a central figure in the movement and attracted support from leaders pushing for a different direction for the opposition.
The Kisii senator had previously endorsed Sifuna for president, signalling his support for the Nairobi senator’s political ambitions even as Matiang’i remains a potential contender for the presidency in 2027.
Onyonka’s reported appointment as treasurer emerged after presidential aide Dennis Itumbi shared an alleged leadership list naming him among the proposed office holders of The Equitable Party, the political vehicle associated with Linda Mwananchi. The movement had yet to formally confirm the appointment by the time of publication.
The development could have implications for political alignments in the Gusii region, where Matiang’i has been associated with efforts to consolidate support for his national ambitions. Onyonka’s decision to join a rival political formation raises questions about how regional leaders will position themselves as competing camps seek to strengthen their support bases.
However, the senator’s claim that he has Matiang’i’s blessing suggests that he does not view the move as a complete break with the former Cabinet secretary. Matiang’i’s public position on the reported shift remained unclear.
Linda Mwananchi has gained prominence amid disagreements within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) over its political direction and relationship with President William Ruto’s administration. The divisions have fuelled efforts by a section of opposition leaders to establish an alternative platform ahead of the next General Election.
Among the figures associated with the movement are Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo, who have featured in efforts to shape the opposition’s future direction.
Linda Mwananchi is expected to unveil its political party and headquarters in Nairobi before holding a rally in Kwale County on Saturday. The launch is expected to provide further clarity on its leadership structure and plans for the coming electoral cycle.
Onyonka’s reported place in the proposed leadership adds to the changing political alliances ahead of 2027, with the question of how leaders aligned with Matiang’i will relate to the emerging movement likely to remain in focus.
