MP Tim Wanyonyi Responds to Claims of Ditching Linda Mwananchi

Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi has responded to claims surrounding his political alignment ahead of the 2027 General Election, reaffirming his decision to work with the Linda Mwananchi political movement.

In a statement on Sunday, September 20, Wanyonyi said recent comments by Sirisia MP John Waluke, had created confusion over his political position and support.

"It has come to my attention that recent public comments by my friend and colleague, Hon. John Waluke, have created some confusion regarding my political alignment, position and support as we approach the 2027 elections," the statement read.

Wanyonyi said he respected Waluke and appreciated the support he had received from him over time, while noting that political views expressed by individual leaders should not automatically be taken as official positions of other politicians.

"I hold Hon. Waluke in high regard, and I recognise and appreciate the support and goodwill he has extended to me over time. I also respect his constitutional right to express his political views.

"However, where such views differ from my own, it is important that the public is able to distinguish between personal opinions and my official political position," the statement added.

Wanyonyi said his decision to join Linda Mwananchi was reached after consultations with residents of Bungoma and consideration of what he believes is the best political direction for the county and the country.

"My decision to join Linda Mwananchi followed extensive consultations with the people of Bungoma and a careful consideration of the political direction I believe is in the best interest of our county and country. That decision remains unchanged," the statement further read.

Wanyonyi also reaffirmed his support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying he would continue working with Linda Mwananchi as political parties and leaders prepare for the 2027 elections.

"I have been clear in my support for our son, Edwin Watanya Sifuna, and my position has not changed. We will continue to work with Linda Mwananchi as we prepare for the political choices that lie ahead," the statement noted.

Wanyonyi further acknowledged that political alignments were changing, particularly among leaders who were elected on an ODM ticket but have since taken different political positions.

"It's important to note that while many of us in Linda Mwananchi were elected on an ODM ticket, political circumstances and individual political alignments are evolving. What should remain clear, however, is that each leader is responsible for communicating their own political position. 

"I will speak for myself, and where necessary, my official secretariat will communicate on matters relating to my programmes, engagements and political activities," the statement read.

Wanyonyi also disclosed that his campaign secretariat was already in place and operational, with Eric Makokha leading the team.

"My campaign secretariat is constituted and operational, and is led by Eric Makokha. Any official communication concerning my programmes, engagements or campaign activities will therefore come either directly from me or through the official secretariat," the statement explained.

Wanyonyi urged his supporters to distinguish between his own political position and statements made by other leaders, saying he respects people who hold different political views.

He concluded by calling for calm among his supporters and the people of Bungoma, saying he would personally communicate his political position whenever necessary.

"I have great respect for my friends, colleagues and supporters, including those who may hold different political views or belong to different political formations. Their opinions are their own, and should not be interpreted as statements of my political position.

"I therefore urge our supporters and the people of Bungoma to remain calm and focused. There is no need for unnecessary political confusion or speculation. Where there is a question concerning my position, I will communicate it myself, or it will come through my official secretariat," the statement concluded.

Waluke had claimed that Wanyonyi had abandoned the Sifuna-led faction and returned to the ODM Party, while throwing his support behind President William Ruto’s bid for re-election.

Speaking during a rally in Bungoma County on Saturday, September 19, Waluke said Wanyonyi was destined to become the county’s first governor elected on an ODM ticket. 

He also portrayed the Westlands MP as a leader capable of driving development and creating employment opportunities for young people.

"For this county to change, Tim Wanyonyi must become the governor. For youths to get employment, Wanyonyi must become the governor. He is in ODM and will be the first ODM governor of Bungoma," Waluke said.