Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has issued a sharp and politically charged warning to Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata following his recent association with the opposition-leaning Linda Mwananchi movement.
In a statement on Friday, July 10, Amisi welcomed Kang’ata’s entry into the movement but cautioned against what he described as potential attempts to dominate or “hijack” its agenda.
“Bwana Irungu Kang’ata, as you join Linda Mwananchi, we welcome you. The more the merrier. But please note that the founders are still alive and kicking,” Amisi stated, signaling both openness and resistance within the movement’s ranks.
Kang’ata, a former ally of President William Ruto and previously associated with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), has in recent weeks positioned himself closer to opposition politics, including appearances at Linda Mwananchi events.
His shift has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from leaders who have long been associated with the movement.
Amisi’s remarks reflected growing unease among some opposition figures over the entry of politicians perceived to have recently exited the ruling camp.
He directly referenced Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, warning against external influence over established leaders within the movement.
“We shall not allow you and your cabal to misuse our son Edwin Sifuna. We are not children of a lesser God,” Amisi said, in remarks that underscored internal sensitivities about leadership and control.
The Saboti MP further questioned Kang’ata’s political consistency, pointing to his recent alignment with the government.
“You just came recently from UDA and William Ruto sycophant. Ata haujaoga utoe dhambi,” he said, suggesting that the governor had not sufficiently distanced himself from his past political affiliations.
Amisi also appeared to challenge Kang’ata’s perceived influence, dismissing any reliance on financial power in shaping the movement’s future.
“Keep your Murang’a county money. Kenyans shall fund our campaign,” he added, framing Linda Mwananchi as a grassroots-driven initiative.
In a broader political message, Amisi warned against attempts to mislead the public, stating: “You can lie to some people all the time, you can even lie to some people some time, but you can never lie to all the people all the time.”
He concluded with a firm declaration on the movement’s direction: “Linda Mwananchi shall never be hijacked under my watch. Kenya needs a renaissance.”
Kang’ata has defended his decision to align with Linda Mwananchi, describing it as a platform focused on accountability, governance, and citizen-driven politics.
However, his entry appears to have exposed underlying tensions within the movement as it seeks to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The exchange highlights the emerging contest over influence within opposition circles, with leaders balancing the need for broader alliances against concerns over political control and ideological consistency.