ODM’s Linda Mwananchi Website Temporarily Taken Offline After Cyberattacks, Says Edwin Sifuna

The official website for the Linda Mwananchi movement affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has been temporarily taken offline following what party officials described as significant cyberattacks and the need for technical upgrades.

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna announced the decision on social media, stating that the site experienced overwhelming traffic shortly after its launch on Friday, March 13. According to Sifuna, thousands of users had registered on the platform within a short period, reflecting strong interest from supporters.

He praised the movement’s backers for their enthusiasm and noted that the technical team would also incorporate feedback from users to improve the platform.

“We have taken the site offline to address the issues and incorporate your ideas. We ask for your patience,” Sifuna said in a post on the social media platform X.

The launch of the Linda Mwananchi platform has drawn attention due to its connection to growing internal divisions within ODM. The movement represents a faction within the party that advocates the “one-term” narrative in Kenya’s political discourse.

Prominent leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi faction include Babu Owino, Member of Parliament for Embakasi East; James Orengo, Governor of Siaya; Godfrey Osotsi, Senator for Vihiga; Richard Onyonka, Senator for Kisii; Caleb Amisi, MP for Saboti; Anthony Kibagendi, MP for Kitutu Chache South; Caroli Omondi, MP for Suba South; and Majimbo Kalasinga, MP for Kabuchai, among others.

The faction stands in contrast to the Linda Ground group within ODM, which is aligned with party leadership under Oburu Oginga. This group supports a broad-based political arrangement and is reportedly advocating for closer cooperation with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

The competing factions reflect widening ideological differences within the party, particularly regarding strategy ahead of future political contests. Both sides have been organising rallies in various parts of the country as they seek to mobilise supporters and promote their respective political positions.

Despite the temporary shutdown of the website, ODM officials indicated that the Linda Mwananchi platform is expected to return online once technical adjustments and security enhancements are completed.