Siaya Governor James Orengo has announced that all is set for the much-anticipated Linda Mwananchi rallies scheduled for Vihiga and Kisumu this weekend.
Addressing the media in Kisumu, Orengo said the events will mark a significant moment for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its supporters across Nyanza and Western regions.
“I address you today on the eve of a series of important events scheduled to take place in the Nyanza and Western Kenya regions,” he said.
Orengo emphasised that Linda Mwananchi is a structured movement within ODM, dismissing any claims that it is a breakaway faction.
“Beginning tomorrow, we will hold two major functions under the banner of Linda Mwananchi. I want to make it very clear that Linda Mwananchi is a caucus, a group, and a movement within the ODM party. That must be clearly understood,” he stated.
The governor outlined the programme, noting that activities will kick off in Vihiga before culminating in a major rally in Kisumu.
“Our activities begin tomorrow in Vihiga, where the entire leadership of Linda Mwananchi will be present. On Sunday, we will conclude with a major rally in Kisumu,” he said.
He described the Kisumu rally as a symbolic homecoming, given the region’s deep political history.
“This will, in many ways, be a homecoming, with Kisumu being the land of Raila Odinga, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and Tom Mboya,” Orengo noted.
Orengo expressed confidence that the rallies will attract massive support, terming the movement a people-driven force.
“Let me state this firmly, it would be difficult for anyone to stop these rallies, whether in Vihiga or Kisumu. Should anyone attempt to do so, they will witness something unprecedented. This is a people’s movement, a tsunami, and we come in peace, preaching the language of peace,” he said.
He added that the movement seeks to revive the founding ideals of ODM, including defending citizens’ rights and upholding social democratic values.
“We believe that Raila Odinga and the ODM party stood for something fundamental, defending the people, fighting for their rights, and protecting the Bill of Rights. That is the true spirit of ODM,” he said.
According to the programme, leaders will make stopovers in Majengo and Shamakhokho in Vihiga County before concluding with a rally in Mbale town.
In Kisumu, the day will begin with a church service before supporters gather at Jomo Kenyatta Grounds for what organisers describe as one of the largest rallies in recent times.
He invited supporters to turn up in large numbers, adding that the leadership is ready to engage the public and address key political issues affecting the region.