Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata confirmed he is part of Linda Mwananchi, saying he joined the movement to help build a platform that brings together Kenyans from different political backgrounds around a common national agenda.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV’s JKLive on Wednesday night, Kang’ata said his decision reflected the wishes of ordinary Kenyans rather than any personal ambition. He said he officially crossed over to Linda Mwananchi and described the movement as an open space in Kenyan politics, likening it to a system where individuals can enter and exit without barriers.
“We are in a season where people must take a position that reflects the people’s wishes. It has nothing to do with me; it has everything to do with Kenyans,” Kang’ata said. He added that he believes Linda Mwananchi can help the country advance by prioritizing what he called three key policies: manufacturing, increased funding for education, and improved healthcare.
“Personally, I am convinced that Linda is one entity that brings all Kenyans together. For this country to go forward, we need to put three policies ahead: manufacturing, more money for education, and healthcare. I believe Linda will grant us that opportunity to champion for those causes.”
Kang’ata also explained that his appearance with other leaders linked to the movement in Thika aimed to show unity across political and regional divides.
“We need to unite as Kenyans, and there was no better opportunity for us to show that unity than Thika because I come from that region,” he said. “I wanted the Linda leaders to know that whatever they are fighting for, people do appreciate it from where I come from.”
The Governor described Linda Mwananchi as a movement rather than a political party, saying its structure enables leaders from different political groupings to work together on national issues.
“Linda is not a party; it is a movement. We have people from Wiper, Jubilee, and other political parties. It is more of a pressure group. Therefore, anyone is welcome to join as long as you subscribe to the ideals of that movement,” he said.
Kang’ata also clarified the role of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna in the movement, saying the embattled ODM party secretary-general remains focused on collaborating with other leaders on wider national priorities.
“Sifuna is not in Linda per se because he is championing the ODM cause. He is there to work with other like-minded politicians to push a Kenyan agenda,” he added.
The announcement comes weeks after Kang’ata said publicly that he would not defend his gubernatorial seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the next general election.
