AIPCA Thika Cathedral: Orengo, Sifuna and Babu Owino Take Linda Mwananchi Campaign to Thika

A delegation of leaders affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi Movement, led by Siaya Governor James Orengo, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and other political figures, attended a church service at AIPCA Thika Cathedral on Sunday before embarking on a series of public engagements in Thika and its environs. 

Addressing congregants and supporters, Governor James Orengo reflected on Thika's historical significance in Kenya's struggle for democracy, saying his return to the town brought back memories of the country's fight for the Second Liberation.

“Coming to Thika is like being born again. I was here together with Kenneth Matiba, Mwai Kibaki and Paul Muite when we started the revolution for Kenya's second liberation. The journey we are beginning today is both a reflection of that struggle and a continuation of it,” Orengo said.

He argued that Kenyans are increasingly demanding change and that the Linda Mwananchi Movement has gained acceptance across the country because it seeks to address the concerns of ordinary citizens.

“Kenya needs a movement for change. Linda Mwananchi is being embraced because people are yearning for a better future,” he said.

Orengo also expressed concern over reports regarding plans to establish an Ebola-related facility in Laikipia, urging the government to reconsider the move and calling on Kenyans to pray for national leaders.

“We pray that the President listens to the concerns of wananchi and carefully reconsiders decisions that affect public confidence and national interests,” he said.

The governor further praised former President Uhuru Kenyatta for his relationship with ODM leader Raila Odinga.

“Uhuru Kenyatta has remained a true friend of Raila Odinga and genuinely wished to see him lead this country. As a nation, we must move together and build unity,” Orengo added.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna told residents that many of the country's challenges could be solved through informed leadership choices at the ballot.

“Eighty percent of our problems can be resolved by electing the right leaders,” Sifuna said.

He lamented the decline of Thika's industrial sector, recalling a time when the town was one of Kenya's leading manufacturing hubs.

“Thika was once known as the Birmingham of Kenya because of its thriving industries. Today, many factories have shut down, jobs have been lost and families are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.

Economic data has shown that several manufacturing firms in industrial towns across Kenya have either downsized or relocated in recent years, contributing to job losses and reduced economic activity.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino used a biblical analogy to criticise President William Ruto's administration, referencing the story of the man who had lived with a disability for 38 years before being healed by Jesus at Bethesda.

“When Jesus healed the man, He told him to pick up his mat and walk. The man did not abandon the mat immediately because it reminded him where he had come from,” Owino said.

The legislator accused the President of abandoning some of the communities and allies who supported his rise to power. Owino also referenced the political fallout between President Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying it demonstrated how political alliances can quickly change after elections.

“The cost of living has gone up, companies are closing and many of the challenges Kenyans are facing today are the result of poor leadership,” he claimed.

Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, Owino called for opposition unity.

“The only hope for this nation is for leaders who believe in change to come together and offer Kenyans a credible alternative,” he said.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka said Kenya possesses sufficient natural and human resources to achieve economic prosperity if properly managed.

“Kenya has all the resources we need to create wealth and improve the lives of our people. What is required is leadership that puts the interests of wananchi first,”  he said.

He urged Kenyans to work together in safeguarding the country's future and ensuring accountability in governance.

Former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo pledged to continue advocating for justice and constitutional rights.

“I will stand for the rights of all Kenyans, regardless of their background or political affiliation,” she said.

Odhiambo urged citizens not to be swayed by money during election periods and to focus instead on leaders' records and policies.

“When Raila Odinga declared 'Kibaki Tosha,' Kenyans united behind a vision for the country. Today, I urge Kenyans not to sell their votes. Let us make decisions that are in the best interest of our nation,” she said.

The leaders were to later proceed to Kivulini Grounds in Makongeni for a public rally before continuing with their planned engagements in Githurai, where they were expected to further popularise the Linda Mwananchi Movement and outline their vision for political and economic reforms.