Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has disclosed that ordinary Kenyans have so far contributed Ksh 6.5 million to the Linda Mwananchi Movement through its paybill number, saying the overwhelming support demonstrates that citizens are willing to directly finance political campaigns.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Sifuna expressed gratitude to Kenyans who have made contributions, describing the response as encouraging and a sign that the movement’s message is resonating with the public.
“As of today, we had, I think, Ksh 6.5 million on that paybill number, and I continue to be eternally grateful,” Sifuna said.
The former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General argued that the initiative is transforming Kenya’s political landscape by proving that leaders do not have to rely on wealthy financiers or powerful political sponsors to fund their campaigns.
According to Sifuna, mature democracies have long embraced public-funded campaigns, where citizens voluntarily support leaders they believe in.
“Kenyans are changing the conversation. In mature democracies, it is the public that finances leaders to be able to run for office,” he stated.
Sifuna also dismissed claims that the Linda Mwananchi Movement cannot mount a serious political campaign without billions of shillings.
He maintained that successful campaigns are built on the support and trust of the people rather than massive financial resources.
“It all started with this notion that somehow, we in Linda Mwananchi do not have the money to run a campaign. You don’t need Ksh 4 billion to run for office,” he said.
