Members of the Linda Mwananchi faction have formally opposed attempts to register the movement as a political party, accusing an individual of fraudulently seeking official recognition without their consent.
Through their lawyers, Henia Anzala & Associates, the faction wrote to the Registrar of Political Parties after a newspaper report indicated that one Charles Wanyonyi had applied to register “Linda Mwananchi” as a political party.
Linda Mwananchi Faction Opposes Party Registration
In their letter, the faction cited provisions of the Political Parties Act, which require the Registrar to publish a notice of any intended registration in the Kenya Gazette and at least two nationwide newspapers to invite objections from the public.
They warned that approving the pending registration could open the door to fraudulent activities.
“The political party is likely to use our clients’ names, images and goodwill to fraudulently get financing either from members of the public or other entities,” the letter stated in part.
The faction urged the Registrar to decline the application, arguing that the move amounts to an attempt to defraud Kenyans.
Deepening Divisions Within ODM
The dispute highlights growing internal divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with the party increasingly split along ideological lines.
The Linda Mwananchi faction supports the ‘one term’ narrative and includes prominent leaders such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, and Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga, among others.
On the other hand, the opposing Linda Ground faction, aligned with ODM party leader Oburu Oginga, supports a broad-based political arrangement and is pushing for a coalition with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The Registrar of Political Parties is expected to consider the objections in line with the law before making a determination on the application.
