Speaking during an interview on the Herman Manyora podcast on April 23, 2026, Atandi dismissed the rally’s chances of success.
He claimed that such an event can only succeed if it has support from the local people—something he insists is lacking in Kisumu.
Atandi further alleged that organisers of the Linda Mwananchi movement are planning to bring in university students from nearby institutions like Maseno University to boost attendance.
According to him, this shows that ordinary residents are not willing to participate.
However, leaders behind the movement, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, have maintained that the rally will go on as planned “come rain or sunshine.”
They insist the event is meant to defend their constitutional rights and send a strong message against political intimidation.
The rally was partly triggered by an earlier incident where Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi was attacked and injured by suspected goons, leading to his hospitalisation at Karen Hospital.
Despite Atandi’s doubts, the Linda Mwananchi team has outlined a schedule that includes rallies in Vihiga County before proceeding to Kisumu for the main event on April 26, 2026.
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Politics