Sifuna’s Bungoma Homecoming Draws Massive Crowds
The service set a calm tone before the political activities that followed, with leaders urging Kenyans to remain united despite political and ethnic differences.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Photo: Courtesy.
By Yamara Sandra
Nairobi Senator and former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna received a heroic welcome in Bungoma County on Sunday as the Linda Mwananchi tour continued its Western Kenya engagements, drawing thousands of residents.
The tour, which passed through Kamukuywa, Kimilili and Chwele before culminating in a major public rally at the Bungoma Posta Grounds, was marked by large, enthusiastic crowds waving placards and chanting slogans in support of the opposition.
Residents lined the streets from early morning to catch a glimpse of the convoy, with many gathering hours before the scheduled stopovers. At every trading centre, the procession was forced to make brief stops as supporters demanded to be addressed.
“Bungoma is home, and I am deeply humbled by the overwhelming support from the people. This movement belongs to every Kenyan who believes in justice, accountability and better leadership,” said Sifuna, who has roots in the county.
The day began with a church service where opposition leaders called for peace, unity and national cohesion. The service set a calm tone before the political activities that followed, with leaders urging Kenyans to remain united despite political and ethnic differences.
After the service, the leaders embarked on a road procession across the county, with residents turning out in large numbers despite the scorching midday sun. Many expressed hope that leaders would continue championing the interests of ordinary citizens amid the country’s economic challenges, including the high cost of living and unemployment.
“We are moving across the country to listen to Kenyans because leadership begins by hearing the voices of the people, not by issuing directives from offices,” Sifuna told the crowds at Chwele market.
Speaking at the main rally at Bungoma Posta Grounds, Sifuna said the Linda Mwananchi movement is focused on protecting democracy, improving governance and ensuring leaders remain accountable to the people. He said the movement would continue engaging citizens in every region to understand their concerns and push for practical solutions.
“Our mission is simple — to stand with wananchi, defend their rights and ensure every Kenyan is heard regardless of where they come from,” he said.
The Nairobi Senator also challenged leaders to prioritise service delivery over political confrontations, saying Kenyans expect solutions to the high cost of living, joblessness among youth, and access to quality public services such as health and education.
“Leadership is not about empty promises; it is about delivering results and ensuring public resources benefit the people who pay taxes,” Sifuna stated, adding that the opposition would continue holding the government accountable while offering alternative ideas.
Other opposition leaders accompanying him echoed the call for unity and urged residents of Bungoma and the wider Western Kenya region to remain peaceful while actively participating in democratic processes. They said the Linda Mwananchi tour seeks to strengthen public engagement and encourage citizens to take part in shaping the country’s future through peaceful and lawful means.
“The strength of our nation lies in the unity of its people. We must protect peace while demanding accountability from those in leadership,” one of the accompanying leaders said.
The colourful rally concluded with songs, dances and chants from supporters, who pledged to continue backing the movement as it expands to other counties. Organisers described the turnout as one of the largest witnessed in the region this year, saying the enthusiastic reception reflected growing public interest in the movement’s message of inclusivity and accountability.
As the convoy departed Bungoma for its next destination, supporters remained optimistic that the engagements would continue giving wananchi a direct opportunity to interact with their leaders.
“This journey has just begun. We will continue visiting every corner of Kenya to engage wananchi and build a stronger, more inclusive nation together,” Sifuna concluded.
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