The Mwananchi Party has moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding its change of name from Muungano Party, amid questions raised over the registration process and the party’s links to the People-Driven Movement.

In a statement issued on Thursday, September 24, the party said its principals visited the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) on August 4, 2026, to seek clarification on the status of the Linda Mwananchi name and the registration process.

The party said the matter was still being handled through the ORPP at the time.

According to the party, the official change of name to The Mwananchi Party took effect on September 10, 2026, as reflected in correspondence from the Registrar.

Recent reporting has also cited ORPP correspondence confirming that the name change took effect on that date.

“The official change of name to The Mwananchi Party was subsequently effected on 10th September 2026, as reflected in the correspondence issued by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties,” read the statement.

The party said it was releasing the official correspondence from the Registrar to allow members of the public to independently review the dates and sequence of events surrounding the change.

“We respect the right of Kenyans to ask questions and seek clarity on matters of public interest,” the party said, adding that discussions on the matter should be guided by the official record and documented chronology.

The clarification comes amid wider political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the Linda Mwananchi movement having been associated with several opposition figures, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

Babu Owino, in a post on his social media, said Kenyans had a right to demand answers and seek clarity on matters concerning the People-Driven Movement.

“We believe Kenyans have every right to demand answers and seek clarity on matters relating to the People-Driven Movement. As leaders, we have a responsibility to listen, engage and provide answers to the people we serve,” Owino said.

The Mwananchi Party said it stands for constitutional freedom and the right of Kenyans to freely express their views, opinions and concerns.

It added that it also recognises its responsibility to respond to questions raised by its members and the wider public.

The party urged Kenyans to consider the official correspondence and the chronology of events when assessing the matter, concluding that “the record speaks for itself.”