KenyaSifuna Launches TEP Party
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has unveiled The Equitable Party as his vehicle for the 2027 presidential contest, ending months of uncertainty over his party affiliation. The move may complicate opposition efforts to unite behind a single candidate.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna on Sunday launched The Equitable Party, a move that could introduce a fresh complication into opposition efforts to unite behind a single candidate. Sifuna said the circumstances surrounding the registration of the new party made its launch particularly significant.
The decision to take over an existing party gives Sifuna a ready-made electoral vehicle as the countdown to the August 10, 2027 General Election gathers pace. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties approved the reservation of the name Linda Mwananchi Movement for 90 days, following an order by the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal.
The launch was attended by leading figures including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, in a show of support for Sifuna's presidential bid. Babu Owino expressed his support for Sifuna, saying he backs him 100%.
Founded by US-based Kenyan Dr Gilbert Marava Shanga in 2022, TEP's founding leaders stepped aside following negotiations with the Linda Mwananchi team, paving the way for Sifuna to take over as party leader. The unveiling came barely a week after the movement unanimously endorsed Sifuna as its leader and presidential candidate for the 2027 contest.
Sifuna used the event to revisit his frustrations with the registration of Linda Mwananchi Movement and his eventual dismissal from the Orange Democratic Movement. He accused the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties of being a major fraud in the way it has handled attempts by opposition groups to register new parties.
The choice of an existing party follows months in which Sifuna and his allies explored several options after the Registrar initially blocked the Linda Mwananchi name. Sifuna plans to rebrand The Equitable Party as Linda Mwananchi Movement.
The launch of The Equitable Party may have implications for opposition unity, as Sifuna's decision to launch a new party could be seen as a move away from a united opposition front. Robert Alai questioned the decision to launch TEP, given plans to rebrand it as Linda Mwananchi.
Key facts
- Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna launched The Equitable Party on October 4, 2026.
- The party will be used as Sifuna's vehicle for the 2027 presidential contest.
- The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties approved the reservation of the name Linda Mwananchi Movement for 90 days.
- Sifuna plans to rebrand The Equitable Party as Linda Mwananchi Movement.
Three perspectives
Neutral
The launch of The Equitable Party has introduced a new dynamic into the opposition landscape. Sifuna's decision to launch a new party may impact opposition unity efforts. The outcome of Sifuna's presidential bid remains to be seen.
Positive
Sifuna's launch of The Equitable Party demonstrates his commitment to his presidential bid. The support of leading figures such as Babu Owino and James Orengo is a significant boost to Sifuna's campaign. The reservation of the Linda Mwananchi Movement name is a positive step towards Sifuna's goal of rebranding The Equitable Party.
Negative
The launch of The Equitable Party may be seen as a move away from opposition unity. Sifuna's accusations against the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties may be perceived as divisive. The decision to launch a new party may be viewed as a strategic mistake.
Your week in news, every Wednesday
The biggest stories of the week for your edition, in your inbox every Wednesday morning, your time. Free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.