Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has shifted her political plans, skipping the Linda Wananchi rally in Kakamega amid public backlash, and aligning with Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiangi for a series of rallies in Kisii.
Omanga had initially announced her participation in Kakamega, even releasing a poster featuring her prominently alongside other politicians.
However, strong online opposition emerged, with many Kenyans criticizing her past conduct during the Gen Z and Finance Bill protests, when she reportedly flaunted newly acquired luxury vehicles while ordinary citizens faced economic hardship.
Political commentator George Diano praised the public for asserting influence over the rally, saying, “I like how Kenyans have decided to own the Linda Wananchi drive and gatekeep it from leaders who do not genuinely represent their interests.”
He described Omanga’s intended participation as an opportunistic attempt to ride the momentum of Edwin Sifuna and the Linda Wananchi initiative.
Instead, Omanga now appears to have aligned with the Matiangi faction, which is set to hold major rallies in Kisii from Monday to Wednesday.
She confirmed her participation on social media, writing:
"Toumerane inka eiki egocha Monday To. Wednesday. Ntori gweitera gaaki kebe nkia monyene ..... Tupatane Monday."
Diano criticized Omanga’s shift, emphasizing that rallies like Linda Wananchi should be platforms for leaders with a proven record of advocacy and service.
He contrasted her actions with politicians he says have consistently supported citizens’ interests, framing her Kisii alignment as opportunistic.
The episode highlights the growing power of online citizen engagement in shaping political events, as public scrutiny influenced Omanga’s decision to avoid Kakamega.