Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo, one of the founding supporters of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi movement, has seemingly shifted his political allegiance towards Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gisairo, who was elected on an ODM ticket in 2022, has recently been appearing alongside Matiang’i at public events across his constituency and the wider Gusii region, raising questions about his continued commitment to Sifuna’s political movement.
During a recent appearance at a funeral in Esise Ward, the legislator shared a podium with the former Interior Cabinet Secretary, further signalling his growing association with Matiang’i.
He has also publicly praised Matiang’i’s leadership, describing his record of service and dedication as an enduring legacy that would inspire future generations.
In previous remarks, Gisairo urged the Abagusii community to remain united behind Matiang’i’s presidential ambitions, arguing that collective support would strengthen the community’s political influence.
Although the MP has not formally announced his departure from Linda Mwananchi, his recent engagements suggest that his political priorities may be shifting.
Gisairo was previously among the legislators who regularly accompanied Sifuna during the initial Linda Mwananchi rallies, alongside Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi and Saboti MP Caleb Amisi.
However, Kibagendi has since openly backed Matiang’i’s presidential bid, joining other Gusii legislators, including Bomachoge Borabu MP Obadiah Barongo and Borabu MP Patrick Osero.
As early as July, Gisairo, Kibagendi, Barongo and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka had expressed continued support for Matiang’i despite their visible involvement in Linda Mwananchi activities. Onyonka dismissed claims that their political positioning indicated a fallout with Matiang’i’s camp.
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The developments are significant given that the Gusii region is Matiang’i’s political stronghold. The Gusii Council of Elders appointed him its chief spokesperson in February, further reinforcing his standing within the community.
A divided Gusii political bloc could, however, weaken Matiang’i’s bargaining position as opposition leaders negotiate the selection of a joint presidential candidate for 2027.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, a close Sifuna ally, has previously emphasised the importance of bringing together communities from Kisii, Kuria, Luhya, Luo and Teso regions to strengthen the opposition’s national support base.
Other leaders move away from Linda Mwananchi
Gisairo’s apparent shift comes amid growing political realignments among leaders who initially supported Linda Mwananchi.
In August, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi launched the People’s Renaissance Movement, explaining that Linda Mwananchi had departed from the principles upon which it was established.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino later unveiled The Mwananchi Party, although he maintained that the decision did not signify a fallout with Sifuna and reiterated his support for the senator’s presidential ambitions.
Siaya Governor James Orengo also announced plans to establish his own political party shortly after Linda Mwananchi endorsed Sifuna at a retreat he did not attend. He was, however, subsequently listed among leaders who endorsed Sifuna during the launch of The Equitable Party (TEP).
Sifuna registered TEP as his political vehicle after efforts to formally register the Linda Mwananchi movement proved unsuccessful.
The apparent realignment of Gisairo and Kibagendi could present a challenge for Sifuna, particularly because both legislators were previously among those who encouraged him to pursue the presidency.
Their growing association with Matiang’i potentially reduces Sifuna’s political influence in the Gusii region at a time when he is seeking to expand his support beyond his traditional political base.
Meanwhile, a Swiss Poll International survey released on November 14 placed Sifuna at 15% in overall presidential preference, followed by Matiang’i at 6% and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro at 4%.
