War of words ahead of Linda Mwainchi rally in Kisumu

ODM Linda Mwananchi team led by Siaya governor James Orengo address the press on March 18, 2026.[Collins Oduor, Standard] All eyes are on Kisumu as the ODM-linked Linda Mwananchi faction prepares to hold a rally on Sunday amid an intensifying battle for political influence in the region long associated with the late Raila Odinga. Kisumu remains a key political stronghold, and control of the region is widely viewed as a significant symbolic and strategic win for competing political players. Political temperatures continued to rise on Friday, with rival groups issuing conflicting statements over the planned rally, setting the stage for a potential showdown. James Orengo, expelled ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino are among leaders expected to lead supporters to the rally at Owuor Grounds. The city was a hive of activity, with groups mobilising both in support of and against the event. In Kondele, traders welcomed the rally, while a section of university students distanced themselves from it. "We are aware of the planned rally but we wish to state that we do not endorse this event. We will not participate in the rally," said a student leader. The clergy also weighed in, calling for restraint. Catholic priest Francis Konyach urged leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric. "We therefore call upon organizers to demonstrate leadership by committing to peaceful conduct before, during and after the event," said Konyach. National Assembly Budget Committee chairperson and Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi criticised the planned rally, accusing its organisers of fuelling division and lacking a development agenda. Addressing residents near Kisumu International Airport, Atandi urged calm and unity while cautioning visiting leaders against engaging in confrontational politics. "I am here in Kisumu to inform our people about some of the development projects we have put in place that will transform the city. Because of my role, I have been mandated to tour the country to listen to citizens and gather ideas that will inform the national budget. I have been to Turkana, Mandera, Mombasa, Kilifi, and many other places," he said. "I want to plead with the people of Kisumu that despite political differences, let us remain peaceful. We welcome our guests, but we also caution them that when you come to Kisumu, you must come with a clear agenda for the people," Atandi added. He warned against what he termed as "political provocation." "If you come here to abuse our leaders or make reckless declarations, including declaring yourself party leader of ODM, that is not acceptable. Kisumu is peaceful, and we expect seriousness. Tell us your agenda first before anything else," he said. Atandi also criticised Governor Orengo's leadership in Siaya County. "Orengo is, in my view, the biggest failure in terms of devolution. Siaya County is not performing. There is little development to show for the resources allocated," he claimed. "The money that has been given to Siaya County has not translated into meaningful development. That is why I am saying someone who has failed in his own county cannot come to Kisumu and lecture others on leadership," Atandi said. "When he comes here on Sunday, he should be told to go back and focus on developing Siaya first. Development should start from home," he added. He further alleged that some leaders were portraying Kisumu and the wider Nyanza region as unstable for political gain. "There are people who want to portray Luoland and Kisumu as chaotic so that the President does not engage with us on development matters. That narrative is misleading and unfair," he said. However, the rally received backing from Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, who criticised Atandi's remarks, saying all leaders have a democratic right to hold meetings anywhere. Meanwhile, some residents expressed readiness to attend the rally. "We will welcome the leaders and we are urging other youths not to be allowed to be used to cause chaos," said Nyalenda resident Brian Madiaba.

War of words ahead of Linda Mwainchi rally in Kisumu

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