Linda Mwananchi Holds High-Level Talks While Rival Camp Threatens Exit Pre-election Pact With UDA

As of April 2026, a major political storm is brewing within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following a sharp divide between two powerful factions over the party’s cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

The “Linda Mwananchi” movement, a vocal faction within ODM, has convened high-level consultative meetings aimed at positioning itself as the “true opposition” ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The group is pushing a populist agenda focused on economic concerns, including the rising cost of living, taxation, and empowerment of ordinary citizens.

However, the faction is facing stiff resistance from a rival camp within the party known as “Linda Ground,” which supports closer ties with President William Ruto and his UDA-led “broad-based” government.

The ongoing standoff has exposed deep cracks within ODM, with both sides accusing each other of undermining the party’s direction and unity.

The Linda Mwananchi faction is led by prominent leaders including ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. The group has openly rejected the ODM-UDA cooperation agreement, describing it as a betrayal of the party’s core principles.

They have dismissed the deal as a “shameful charade” and labeled it a “Ten-Point Lies” report, insisting that it does not reflect the will of ODM supporters.

In recent weeks, the faction has intensified its activities by holding rallies across the country, including in Busia, Mombasa, and Kakamega, drawing large crowds despite occasional disruptions.

On the other hand, the Linda Ground camp, associated with leaders such as Oburu Oginga, has defended the cooperation agreement, arguing that working with the government is necessary for national stability and development.

The group has gone further to criticize the Linda Mwananchi movement, branding it as unauthorized and externally influenced. They have also called for Sifuna’s resignation, accusing him of spearheading a “renegade” faction within the party.

Tensions have escalated to the point where members of the Linda Ground faction have openly challenged their rivals to leave ODM if they are dissatisfied with the party’s direction.

Despite the growing friction, some ODM leaders have already taken up positions within the government, further fueling claims by the Linda Mwananchi group that the pact with UDA is effectively “politically dead.”

The unfolding power struggle signals a possible split within ODM, as the party grapples with its identity and strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.