Senator Edwin Sifuna suddenly changed his travel route before the Linda Mwananchi rally in Kakamega. This happened on 21 February 2026. Many people now ask: what really went wrong?
At first, he planned to fly from Nairobi to Kisumu and then drive to Kakamega. However, he received urgent security warnings. Therefore, he quickly switched to a direct flight to Kakamega Airstrip. This article explains the main events step by step.
What happened before the rally?
Initially, Sifuna’s team booked normal commercial flights to Kisumu. Soon after, they got serious warnings about danger at Kisumu Airport. Unknown people had blocked some areas there.
Because of this, the team decided the risk was too high. As a result, they cancelled the Kisumu plan. Instead, they flew straight to Kakamega Airstrip. Later Sifuna wrote: “By God’s grace and your prayers, we reached Nairobi safely.”
Did someone leak the travel plan?
Sifuna accused some airlines of sharing his travel details. For example, he believes officials in the Interior Ministry received this information. Consequently, he asked a clear question: how can Kenya Airports Authority still guarantee safety?
So far, no airline or government office has given an official answer (as of 22 February 2026).
Air travel in Kenya – the background to the reported safety scare.
Another problem: the sound truck attack
One day earlier (20 February), attackers stoned a blue-and-white Linda Mwananchi truck. In addition, the truck carried sound equipment for the rally. The attack happened near Riat on the Kisumu–Kakamega road.
Despite this, no one was hurt. However, the windshield broke and the body was damaged. Sifuna’s team called it a clear attempt to stop the event.
What happened at the Kakamega rally?
Even though many problems occurred, thousands came to Amalemba Grounds. Shortly after Sifuna started speaking, tear gas landed near the stage. People panicked for a few minutes.
After that, the crowd calmed down. Then Sifuna continued. He told everyone: “No one can stop this movement.” Siaya Governor James Orengo and MP Babu Owino also spoke.
Thousands attended the Linda Mwananchi rally in Kakamega(Amalemba Grounds) despite tear gas and earlier threats.
Why does this matter for ODM and 2027?
First, these events show the deep split inside ODM. Second, Sifuna openly opposes any deal with President Ruto’s side. Therefore, party leaders tried to remove him as Secretary General. However, a court order stopped that move for now.
As a result, many supporters believe powerful people want to silence Sifuna before 2027. Meanwhile, his rallies keep growing bigger. Because of this, the travel scare and tear gas only increased attention on him.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sifuna change his flight plan?
He received warnings about danger at Kisumu Airport. Therefore, he flew to Kakamega Airstrip instead.
What did Sifuna say about the airlines?
He accused them of sharing his travel details with Interior Ministry officials. As a result, he said they risked lives.
Was anyone hurt by the tear gas?
The tear gas caused short confusion. However, no serious injuries were widely reported.
What happened to the sound truck?
Unknown people stoned it near Riat. Despite this, no one was hurt.
Has the government answered Sifuna’s claims?
So far, no public reply has come from the Ministry or airlines (as of 22 February 2026).
Will Linda Mwananchi rallies continue?
Yes. In addition, Sifuna says the tour will go on after Ramadan.
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