Linda Mwananchi leaders declare Western vote key to unseating Ruto in 2027

Linda Mwananchi movement leaders say they are the political force that will unseat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.

The leaders dismissed efforts by pro-President William Ruto leaders from the Western region to unite the area behind the President, arguing that for decades, Western Kenya's political leadership has failed to provide meaningful direction for the Luhya community.

The leaders, who were on Saturday in Trans Nzoia County, taking their campaign trail through Matunda, Moi's Bridge, Sibanga and Kitale town, say the time has come for the region to produce the country's next leadership.

"This time we've resolved that he will not beat us. We'll face him head-on. Are you still afraid of Ruto?" posed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino added, "Can he really match us? We've travelled across the country and he has no votes. This is a one-term presidency."

Siaya Governor James Orengo on his part said, “How many of you want Kasongo to go home? Should he stay or leave? Kasongo has bought ODM, but I'm ODM—past and present."

The leaders dismissed attempts by Western Kenya politicians allied to President Ruto to rally the region behind the Kenya Kwanza administration, arguing that the same leaders have repeatedly failed to champion the region's political interests.

"When we first called for unity, they dismissed us. Now the tide has changed, and no one will divide Western Kenya,” said Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi added, "They've brought Atwoli, they've brought Wetang'ula, and they're using money. Do what the people of Ol Kalou did—take the money, then send it to Sifuna's paybill."

Sifuna also criticised President Ruto's affordable housing programme, arguing that it does not address Kenyans' most pressing needs and instead benefits a select few.

"He wants to compete with me over chicken farming. These houses he's building—the cement, the steel—it's all business for a few people, not ordinary Kenyans,” Sifuna said.

The Linda Mwananchi campaign trail heads to Bungoma County on Sunday as the movement continues to rally support ahead of the 2027 General Election.