Police teargas Sifuna’s ‘Linda Mwananchi’ group rally in Kitengela

By Newsflash Writer

Police on Sunday, February 15, 2026, disrupted a political rally organised by embattled Orange Democratic Movement Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and his anti-government faction in Kitengela town, Kajiado County.

The rally, organised under the “Linda Mwananchi” banner within the party, was dispersed after police lobbed teargas at the large crowd that had gathered to attend the meeting.

The event brought together several leaders allied to Sifuna, who used the platform to criticise President William Ruto’s administration and defend Sifuna’s position within the party.

Among the leaders present were Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni, alongside other politicians backing the embattled secretary-general.

Church service criticism

Before the rally, the leaders attended a church service at ACK St. Peter’s Orkeju Emanya in Kajiado County, where they criticised the government over alleged corruption and the economic hardships facing Kenyans.

The ‘Linda Mwananchi’ group political rally in Kitengela on Sunday, 15/1/2026. Photo/Courtesy

During the service, the leaders accused the current administration of failing to address the rising cost of living and governance challenges, calling for accountability and reforms.

Leaders defend Sifuna

At the Kitengela rally, the leaders maintained that Sifuna remains the legitimate Secretary-General of ODM despite internal party wrangles.

They insisted that attempts to remove him from office were politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissenting voices within the party.

Speaking at the gathering, Owino claimed that a rival faction allied to President Ruto had taken control of the party’s leadership but lacked public support.

He alleged that the pro-government wing, associated with party leader Oburu Oginga, may control internal structures but does not enjoy the backing of ordinary Kenyans.

The incident highlights deepening divisions within ODM, with rival factions jostling for control and influence over the party’s direction.

Despite the disruption by police, Sifuna’s allies vowed to continue mobilising support across the country, insisting that their push represents the interests of ordinary citizens.

The leaders called for unity among party supporters and pledged to intensify their campaigns, even as tensions within the party and confrontations with authorities continue to shape the unfolding political landscape.