Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata joins the Linda Mwananchi movement during a rally in Thika, Kiambu County on June 14, 2026 / HANDOUTMurang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata on Sunday joined the Linda Mwananchi movement during a rally in Thika, Kiambu County.
Kang'ata's appearance at the event comes barely a month after he announced that he would not seek re-election as governor on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, citing differences in political strategy, citizen engagement and policy priorities.
The governor's participation in the Thika gathering is viewed as a significant political development, given his long association with President William Ruto and his previous senior roles within the ruling party.
In a statement issued on May 3, 2026, Kang'ata emphasised that his decision to part ways with UDA was not personal but was informed by differing views on leadership and governance.
“I express my sincere gratitude for the long and meaningful relationship I have had with His Excellency the President. Our association stretches back to 2013 when I first served as Member of Parliament for Kiharu,” he said at the time.
“Over the years, as MP, senator, and now governor, we
have worked closely in advancing shared goals for our people.”
Kang'ata, who also served as Senate Majority Whip, said leadership should be grounded in consultation and mutual respect rather than coercion.
“Leadership must be anchored in persuasion, not pressure; in dialogue, not coercion,” he said, adding that rising political tensions risk undermining democratic values.
He further noted that his primary responsibility
remained to the people who elected him, saying that leadership sometimes
requires independent judgement and difficult decisions.
The Thika rally also featured former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, whose recent entry into the Linda Mwananchi movement has generated significant interest within political circles.
Odhiambo confirmed her attendance through a post on her official X account, mobilising supporters ahead of the event and reinforcing her growing association with the citizen-centred political movement.
Her participation comes just days after Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna formally welcomed her into the movement, describing her as a valuable addition to a coalition seeking to champion constitutionalism, accountability and citizens' rights.
The rally attracted thousands of supporters and brought together a host of prominent opposition leaders and reform advocates.
Among them are Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi among others.
They began the day with a church service at AIPCA Thika Cathedral before participants proceeded to Kivulini Grounds for the main political rally.
