Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna are expected to spearhead efforts to unite opposition leaders from the Western region under a new political outfit aimed at consolidating the region’s political influence ahead of the 2027 general election.
The move, leaders say, is intended to provide a common political platform for opposition figures from Western Kenya and strengthen the region’s bargaining power in national politics.
Speaking in Bungoma on Friday during a planning meeting ahead of the Linda Mwananchi rallies scheduled for July 25 and 26 in Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties respectively, Bumula MP Jack Wamboka warned individuals allegedly planning to organize parallel rallies or disrupt the opposition meetings.
During the United Opposition rallies held in the region a few months ago, rival political meetings were reportedly organized in parts of Kanduyi and Tongaren constituencies.
“We have heard reports that there are those planning to hold parallel rallies or disrupt our meeting at Posta Grounds in Bungoma town. I want to warn them against such attempts because they will not succeed,” Wamboka said.
The legislator disclosed that opposition leaders would use the July 26 rally in Bungoma to unveil a new political party that will bring together leaders opposed to the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“I want to announce that on July 26, we shall launch a new political outfit that will accommodate all opposition leaders from this region as we prepare for the 2027 general election,” he said.
Wamboka says that the formation of the party is aimed at fostering unity among opposition leaders and avoiding political fragmentation that could weaken their chances in future elections.
He further called on DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa to join the new political formation and support Senator Sifuna’s presidential ambitions.
The Bumula MP also accused ODM leader Oburu Odinga of allegedly undermining Sifuna politically and ousting him from key positions.
Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati echoed calls for unity, saying the opposition can only stand a chance of defeating President William Ruto and his allies if it presents a united front.
Wangamati took a swipe at National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, arguing that Ford Kenya’s political influence in the Western region had significantly diminished.
“We tested Ford Kenya’s strength during the Chwele/Kabuchai mini-polls and I can confidently say that the party is no longer as influential as it was. In 2027, we shall work to ensure that the opposition emerges stronger in this region,” Wangamati said.
He urged opposition leaders to agree on single candidates for various elective seats to avoid splitting votes.
“Kenya Kwanza leaders have resources and strong networks. If we field multiple candidates in the same positions, we risk handing them an easy victory. Unity and strategic planning will be key if we are to succeed in 2027,” he added.
Governor Natembeya said efforts would now shift towards building and strengthening the new political movement across the region.
The governor also claimed that he had long cut ties with the DAP-K party, adding that several leaders from the region had equally distanced themselves from the party.
“DAP-K has lost its footing in the region. Even before I left, several leaders had already moved away from the party,” Natembeya said.
He announced that the Linda Mwananchi rallies would kick off in Trans Nzoia County on July 25 before proceeding to Bungoma County on July 26, adding that coordinators had already been appointed in all constituencies to mobilize support.
Natembeya expressed confidence that the new political formation would attract leaders and supporters from across the Western region, saying there was growing demand for an alternative political vehicle that would champion the interests of the people.
