Siaya Governor James Orengo has welcomed the latest legal victory involving the Linda Mwananchi Movement, saying the development strengthens the push for political change and renewed unity within Kenya’s opposition.
In a statement shared on social media on Thursday, October 1, Orengo said meaningful political change would require unity and what he described as positive political action.
“I support the struggle for change which cannot be achieved without unity and positive political action,” Orengo said.
The governor said he and his political allies were participating in the ongoing political process through the establishment of a political vehicle, while maintaining their commitment to bringing opposition forces together ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We are participating in this journey with the launch of a political vehicle and remain committed to opposition unity and identification of one presidential candidate,” he said.
His remarks came a day after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal delivered a ruling that overturned the Registrar of Political Parties’ decision rejecting an application to reserve the Linda Mwananchi Movement name.
The tribunal directed the Registrar to reconsider and act on the application within seven days, in accordance with the law and its findings.
The dispute had partly centred on an earlier reservation associated with the Liberty National Democratic Alliance (LINDA).
The tribunal found that the earlier reservation had lapsed after the required application for provisional registration was not filed within the statutory period.
The decision therefore removed a key legal obstacle that had stood in the way of the proposed Linda Mwananchi Movement’s bid to secure the name.
However, the ruling does not amount to full registration of Linda Mwananchi as a political party. The Registrar is required to undertake the next steps in accordance with the tribunal’s decision.
Orengo, a veteran opposition figure, described the development as a success for the movement and reaffirmed his support for the wider political initiative.
“We laud the Linda Mwanainchi success story and remain steadfast,” he said.
His statement also placed emphasis on the need for opposition parties and political actors to work towards a common political platform, including the identification of a single presidential candidate.
The push for opposition unity has become an increasingly prominent feature of political discussions ahead of the 2027 elections, with various parties and political formations exploring possible alliances and joint platforms.