Why I joined Linda Mwananchi: Governor Irungu Kang'ata speaks

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV's JKLive on Wednesday night, Kang’ata stated that his decision was informed by aligning himself with the wishes of ordinary Kenyans rather than pursuing personal interests. 

“I have officially crossed over to Linda Mwananchi. I am a Linda person. I view Linda like the free market of Kenyan politics, where there are no barriers to entry and exit. I will discuss where I will vie later,” Kang’ata stated. 

“We are in that season where people have to take a position that reflects the people’s wishes. It has nothing to do with me; it has everything to do with Kenyans. Personally, I am convinced that Linda is one entity that brings all Kenyans together. For this country to go forward, we need to put three policies ahead: manufacturing, more money for education, and healthcare. I believe Linda will grant us that opportunity to champion for those causes." 

Kang’ata also explained that his appearance alongside leaders associated with the movement in Thika was intended to demonstrate unity across political and regional divides.

“We need to unite as Kenyans, and there was no better opportunity for us to show that unity than Thika because I come from that region. I wanted the Linda leaders to know that whatever they are fighting for, people do appreciate it from where I come from,” he stated.

The Governor described Linda Mwananchi as a movement rather than a political party, arguing that its structure allows leaders from different political formations to work together on issues affecting the country.

“Linda is not a party, it is a movement. We have people from Wiper, Jubilee and different political parties. It is more of a pressure group. Therefore, anyone is welcome to join as long as you subscribe to the ideals of that movement,” he added.

He also sought to clarify the role of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna within the movement, noting that the embattled Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party Secretary-General remains committed to collaborating with other leaders on broader national issues.

“Sifuna is not in Linda per se because he is championing the ODM cause, he is there to join other like-minded politicians to push for a Kenyan agenda,” he noted.

The announcement comes weeks after Kang’ata publicly disclosed that he would not defend his gubernatorial seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the next General Election. 

He, however, maintained that he remains loyal to both the party and President William Ruto for the remainder of his current term.

The Governor indicated that his decision had been influenced by growing political tensions and disagreements over leadership approaches and policy priorities.

“I wish to state that when the appropriate time comes, I will not seek to defend my seat on the party’s ticket. I will, at a later stage, communicate the platform through which I will present myself to the electorate,” Kang'ata said on May 3, 2026, after meeting with President Ruto in Kandara constituency, Murang’a.

“I will continue to serve diligently in my current capacity and to cooperate with the national government in delivering development to our people.”