Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has cautioned members of the Linda Mwananchi faction against forming a new political party, warning that such a move could weaken the opposition and politically benefit President William Ruto.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Natembeya said a split within Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could divide opposition votes at a time when unity is needed.
“My personal view, and that will be, is that it’s a disaster. The opposition, which should be united, risks weakening itself if a faction branches off to form another wing.
They will reduce our votes and inadvertently help Ruto secure yet another term. So for me, I strongly discourage that kind of direction,” he said.
Natembeya noted that ODM currently appears divided between leaders supporting the broad-based government arrangement and those opposed to it.
“We are simply observing. Ideally, we would have wished that ODM exits the broad-based government and comes back to us, because we are united when looking for votes,” he said.
He also referenced the political deal that saw the late Raila Odinga join the government, saying not everyone supported the decision.
“The arrangement where the late Raila Odinga joined the government, some of it was not supported, and people are now expressing views similar to ours,” he added.
Natembeya clarified that he is not affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi faction, maintaining that the matter remains an internal ODM affair.
“I am not part of the Linda Mwananchi faction, nor have I attended any of their events. This is an internal ODM issue, and for those of us who remain in Azimio, we are essentially innocent bystanders, observing how events are unfolding,” he said.
The Linda Mwananchi faction, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, includes Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, and Nyamira Senator Erick Okong’o Mogeni.
Other members associated with the group are Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Bumula MP Wanami Wamboka, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, Kaiti MP Joshua Kimilu, and Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga.
The debate over the future of the faction comes amid growing tensions within ODM over its relationship with the government and the direction the opposition should take ahead of the next general election.
