Onyonka, Kibagendi Join Sifuna, Babu, Orengo and Osotsi at Busia Rally as Matiang’i 2027 Push Gains Momentum
Politics Updated: 08 February 2026 16:21 EAT
ODM group led by Edwin Sifuna, James Orengo, and Godfrey Osotsi holds its first rally, dubbed Linda Mwananchi.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka and Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi have joined a growing list of opposition leaders publicly associated with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s emerging 2027 presidential push, after attending a high-profile political rally in Busia alongside ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
The leaders were part of the “Linda Mwananchi” tour that kicked off in Busia, an opposition-leaning mobilisation drive aimed at rallying citizens around governance, economic pressure, and political accountability under the current administration. The rally attracted senior figures from across the ODM and opposition spectrum, signaling widening coordination ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Onyonka and Kibagendi, both from the Gusii region, have in recent months openly championed Matiang’i as a credible national figure capable of mounting a serious presidential challenge. Onyonka has repeatedly defended Matiang’i in public forums, arguing that past controversies should not bar him from seeking the presidency, while Kibagendi has urged communities in Kisii to back Matiang’i’s national ambitions.
Although the Busia rally was not formally branded as a Matiang’i presidential campaign event, the presence of his known allies alongside key ODM power brokers has been interpreted by political observers as a strategic alignment that strengthens Matiang’i’s profile within the broader opposition movement.
Sifuna, Babu Owino and Orengo used the Busia platform to criticise the Kenya Kwanza administration, focusing on the cost of living, governance concerns and what they described as shrinking democratic space. Osotsi echoed calls for opposition unity, urging leaders to consolidate early ahead of 2027.
Matiang’i, who served as Interior CS during former president Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, has not formally declared his presidential bid. However, sustained public endorsements, grassroots mobilisation and the growing visibility of his allies at major opposition rallies continue to fuel speculation that he is positioning himself for a run.
The Busia rally underscored shifting political dynamics within the opposition, with regional leaders increasingly appearing together at national events — a move seen as laying the groundwork for broader coalitions as the 2027 race slowly takes shape.
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FELIX MAKONA
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