Sifuna Claims Some MPs Secretly Support Linda Mwananchi Movement
According to Sifuna, the legislators fear that openly supporting the movement could affect the implementation of government-funded development projects in their constituencies.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Photo/Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has claimed that several Members of Parliament privately support the Linda Mwananchi movement but have chosen not to express their backing publicly because they fear political and development-related consequences.
Speaking during an interview on Egesa FM on Wednesday, Sifuna alleged that some lawmakers had told him they agreed with the movement’s objectives but were reluctant to be publicly associated with it.
According to Sifuna, the legislators fear that openly supporting the movement could affect the implementation of government-funded development projects in their constituencies.
“I know this government does not play around. If you shift from saying ‘two terms’ to ‘one term,’ a contractor can pack up and leave with their machines,” Sifuna said.
He alleged that some MPs were concerned contractors working on road and other infrastructure projects could withdraw from their constituencies if they were perceived to be opposing the government.
Sifuna further claimed that several lawmakers had asked him to allow ongoing development projects to be completed before expecting them to publicly endorse the Linda Mwananchi movement.
According to the senator, the legislators fear taking a political position that could jeopardize investments already underway in their constituencies.
Despite what he described as political pressure, Sifuna praised leaders from the Kisii region whom he said had remained committed to the movement.
He singled out Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, describing him as one of the movement’s consistent supporters despite what he termed political challenges.
Sifuna alleged that Kibagendi had paid a political price for supporting the movement, claiming the legislator had faced difficulties because of his position and perceptions that his political future had been affected.
The Nairobi senator maintained that the Linda Mwananchi movement continues to attract support from leaders across different political affiliations.
He expressed confidence that more politicians would publicly declare their support once concerns about possible political repercussions subside.
“The support is there. Many leaders believe in what the movement stands for, but some are hesitant to come out publicly because of the consequences they fear,” Sifuna said.
The government had not publicly responded to Sifuna’s specific allegations at the time of publication.
His remarks come amid continued political debate surrounding the Linda Mwananchi movement and its role in Kenya’s evolving political landscape, with supporters presenting it as a platform for citizen-centered governance while critics question its political objectives.
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