Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has criticised the Linda Mwananchi movement, accusing its leaders of abandoning the Gen Z-led demand for accountability before attempting to rebrand themselves as defenders of ordinary Kenyans.
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, Salasya questioned the movement’s credibility, arguing that some of its key figures had previously backed the political arrangement they now appear to oppose.
“So we’re supposed to forget everything just because the script has changed?” the lawmaker posed.
Salasya claimed that leaders now associated with Linda Mwananchi had dismissed calls by Gen Z protesters for better governance while supporting the broad-based political arrangement, which he blamed for the country’s current political uncertainty.
“The same people who dismissed the Gen Z push for better governance, cheered on the broad-based arrangement, and helped create today’s political confusion now want to rebrand themselves as champions of wananchi. That’s quite a transformation,” he wrote.
The MP maintained that he remains unconvinced by the movement’s message, insisting that it must demonstrate genuine commitment before earning public trust.
“As for me, I won’t be buying it. Linda Mwananchi can keep the slogans. I’ll only take it seriously when they stop the political gymnastics and join the United Opposition. Until then, it’s hard to tell whether this is leadership or just another rebranding exercise,” Salasya stated.
His remarks come just days after Linda Mwananchi leaders held a series of political rallies across Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties, drawing large crowds as they intensified grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election.
The rallies were led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo and other allies, who used the forums to rally support for the movement’s governance agenda.
Salasya’s latest comments underscore the growing contest within the opposition, with leaders increasingly divided over alliances, political strategy and the path toward unseating President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
