Siaya Governor James Orengo has rallied supporters in Nyanza and Western Kenya ahead of a series of political engagements under the “Linda Mwananchi” initiative, describing the programme as a key mobilisation effort within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Speaking upon his arrival at the Kisumu airport on Friday, April 24, 2026, Orengo set the tone for the planned activities scheduled to begin in Vihiga County before culminating in Kisumu over the weekend, framing the events as both a show of unity and a reaffirmation of the party’s ideological foundation.
He clarified that Linda Mwananchi is a caucus and movement operating within ODM, designed to strengthen internal cohesion and reinforce the party’s grassroots structures across its traditional strongholds.
“Our first stop will be Vihiga, where the movement’s leadership is expected to engage supporters in a series of public gatherings,” he said.
He noted that the Vihiga programme will include stopovers in Majengo and Shamakhoho before concluding with a major rally in Luanda, which is expected to attract significant attendance.
The governor emphasised that all activities will be conducted peacefully, urging supporters to remain disciplined and focused on the broader political message.
Linda Mwananchi Kisumu rally
Turning to Kisumu, Orengo described the Sunday rally as a symbolic homecoming, highlighting the city’s deep political history and its connection to the region’s founding leaders.
He referenced Kisumu’s association with prominent figures such as Raila Odinga, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and Tom Mboya, noting that the area remains central to ODM’s political identity.
“The Kisumu event will begin with a church service in Nyalenda before proceeding to Kowuor grounds, which is our main meeting point,” Orengo said.
He maintained that the planned rallies are a democratic expression of political support and should proceed without interference, warning against any attempts to disrupt them.
However, he insisted that despite the strong political messaging, the movement remains committed to peace, unity, and constitutionalism.
Orengo used the platform to restate what he described as the founding principles of ODM, saying the party was built on the defence of citizens’ rights and social democratic values.
“The “Linda Mwananchi” initiative reflects those ideals, particularly the protection of the Bill of Rights and promotion of accountable governance,” he said.
The governor also turned critical, suggesting that recent political developments signal attempts to influence internal party structures and alignments.
Attempts to swallow ODM
He referenced a recent meeting at State House, arguing that it raised concerns about shifting political dynamics and the relationship between ODM and the government.
“Any attempts to swallow or weaken ODM from outside would be resisted; I want to insist that the party remains deeply rooted and resilient,” he said.
He further argued that ODM continues to command strong support across the country, particularly in western Kenya, despite emerging political competition.
According to him, recent political activity by rival groups in the region reflects increased contestation but does not diminish ODM’s standing.
He contrasted the current mobilisation efforts with earlier periods when rival parties had a limited presence in parts of western Kenya.
Despite the sharp political undertones, Orengo maintained that the focus of the weekend events remains unity, mobilisation, and engagement with citizens.
He extended an open invitation to supporters to turn up in large numbers for both the Vihiga and Kisumu events.
Orengo concluded his remarks by reaffirming his loyalty to ODM and its leadership, stressing that the movement remains anchored in its historical mission.
