Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna./FILE
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has claimed that several Members of Parliament privately support the Linda Mwananchi movement but are unwilling to declare their backing publicly for fear of government retaliation.
Speaking during an interview on Egesa FM on Wednesday, Sifuna alleged that some legislators had confided in him that they agree with the movement's objectives but are concerned that openly supporting it could stall development projects in their constituencies.
According to the senator, some MPs fear that contractors working on government-funded road projects could abandon ongoing works if they are perceived as opposing the administration.
"I know this government does not play around. If you shift from saying 'two terms' to 'one term,' a contractor can pack up and leave with their machines," Sifuna said.
He claimed that concerns over the possible withdrawal of contractors and other government-backed projects have discouraged some elected leaders from publicly associating themselves with the movement.
Sifuna further alleged that some MPs had urged him to allow ongoing development projects in their constituencies to be completed before expecting them to openly support Linda Mwananchi.
According to him, the legislators fear jeopardising investments already underway by taking a public political stand.
Despite what he described as growing political pressure, Sifuna praised leaders from the Kisii region whom he said had remained committed to the movement.
He singled out Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, describing him as a steadfast supporter who has continued to back Linda Mwananchi despite political challenges.
Sifuna claimed Kibagendi had paid a political price for his stance, arguing that the legislator had faced difficulties because of his support for the movement and the perception that he is a one-term MP.
The Nairobi senator maintained that Linda Mwananchi continues to attract support from leaders across different political backgrounds and expressed confidence that more politicians would publicly join the movement once they no longer fear possible consequences.
The government has not publicly responded to Sifuna's specific claims.
His remarks come amid continued political debate over the Linda Mwananchi movement and its place in Kenya's evolving political landscape.
