Renowned media personality Willis Raburu has officially joined the ‘Linda Mwananchi’ movement, a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) aligned with Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
In a statement issued on Thursday, April 23, on his official account, Governor Orengo confirmed Raburu’s entry into the faction following a high-level meeting, signalling a strategic addition to the group’s growing political influence.
“Today, I had an engaging tete-a-tete with Willis Raburu. He is officially bringing his signature youthful energy, corporate MC expertise, and creative media edge to the Linda Mwananchi Movement,” said Orengo.
He added that Raburu’s entry strengthens the movement’s youth-driven agenda and political momentum, as alignments continue to take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Today, I had an engaging tete a tete with @WillisRaburu . He’s officially bringing his signature youthful energy, corporate MC expertise, and creative media edge to the Linda Mwananchi Movement.
— James Orengo (@orengo_james) April 23, 2026
Willis is running for the Kisumu Senatorial seat, and we are thrilled he’s chosen… pic.twitter.com/dqURhPYFQ2
“Willis is running for the Kisumu Senatorial seat, and we are thrilled he has chosen to board our bus, a movement fueled by the aspirations of the youth and a drive for a better Kenya,” he added.
Raburu will now be part of the ‘Linda Mwananchi’ team, which is preparing for a major political rally in Kisumu scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026.
The faction, led by Orengo and Sifuna, has also taken a firm stance against any move by ODM to back President William Ruto in the 2027 general election, signalling deepening political realignments within the party.
Following the announcement, users on X shared congratulatory messages, with many praising Raburu’s move into active politics.
One user, PowerLensKE, wrote: “Willis has made a great choice, bringing fresh energy, media savvy and a youth-focused approach into politics is exactly what the space needs right now.”
Another user, Wild Kore, said: “At least he knows how to keep the audience awake.”
Raburu’s move reflects a growing trend in Kenya where journalists and media personalities are transitioning into active politics, leveraging their public profiles, communication skills, and audience trust to pursue elective positions.