Gachagua Urges Sifuna, Owino to Contain Online Rift Within Linda Mwananchi Movement

 Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has called on Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to address an escalating online dispute between their respective supporters, warning that the tensions risk undermining unity within the Linda Mwananchi Movement.

Speaking during a media engagement at Shawnee Mission Park in Kansas City, United States, Gachagua said he had separately called both leaders, urging them to meet and resolve the situation before it deepens. He also asked Senator John Methu to join the discussions. Gachagua expressed particular concern that the online exchanges had taken on an ethnic dimension, with supporters identified with the Luo and Luhya communities trading insults.

The dispute follows heightened social media debate over Sifuna's and Owino's mobilisation influence, intensifying after the September 13 Linda Mwananchi rally at Jacaranda Grounds and Owino's public rebuke of supporter Abbie Zuena. Despite the friction, Owino reaffirmed his support for Sifuna's 2027 presidential bid on September 18, citing their long political alignment dating back to their time in ODM. Governor James Orengo has also signaled presidential ambitions, adding another layer to the movement's internal dynamics.