Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has suspended the planned Linda Mwananchi tour in Mombasa County. He said Muslim elders requested the pause to allow observance of Ramadan.
Sifuna announced the decision on Saturday, February 21, in Kakamega County. He spoke during a rally at Amalemba Grounds. Leaders allied to the movement stood beside him as he addressed supporters.
He said the group will continue traversing the country. He added that they will respect the holy month before resuming activities in the Coast region.
Ramadan began on February 18 and will end on March 18. The holy month involves daytime fasting and evening Taraweeh prayers.
Sifuna said Muslim leaders asked for a temporary halt in Mombasa. He stated that the movement respects religious practices. He emphasised unity and tolerance in national politics.
The Coast region hosts a significant Muslim population. Large political rallies often involve loud music and extended daytime programmes. Such events could interfere with fasting routines.
Organisers said they want to avoid unnecessary friction. They confirmed that the tour will resume after Ramadan.
Several opposition leaders attended the Kakamega event. Among them stood Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. Siaya Governor James Orengo also addressed the crowd.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi joined the caucus at the rally. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Linda Mwananchi agenda.
They urged supporters to remain peaceful despite rising tensions. They said the movement will pursue change through constitutional means.
The Linda Mwananchi tour launched officially on February 8, 2026. Early events took place in Ugunja and Busia counties.
On February 15, the team held a rally in Kitengela, Kajiado County. That stop attracted large crowds and heightened political attention.
Organisers had scheduled Mombasa as a key Coast region stop. They now plan to announce new dates after Ramadan.
Sifuna said the movement will cover every region. He described the tour as a national mobilisation drive.
Recent rallies have faced violent disruptions. At the Kitengela event, clashes broke out between police and sections of the crowd.
Autopsy reports released on February 21 confirmed that Vincent Ayomo died from police gunshots. Reports indicate he was returning home from work during the unrest.
Approximately 50 people sustained injuries after police used tear gas and live ammunition. The incident intensified criticism from opposition leaders.
On February 21, violence also erupted at the Kakamega rally. Clashes between rival groups led to injuries among youths in nearby Mbale town.
These incidents have raised concerns about security at political gatherings. Leaders continue to demand accountability and restraint from all sides.
The suspension of the Mombasa rally comes amid heightened political temperatures. Observers note that Ramadan could influence turnout and campaign energy.
Daytime fasting reduces large public participation in rallies. Evening prayers further limit extended political events.
Opposition leaders say they want to avoid inflaming tensions. They argue that religious observance should take precedence.
Sifuna said the movement will return stronger after the holy month. He promised fresh dates for the Coast region.
The Linda Mwananchi team now shifts focus to other regions. Political observers expect further announcements in the coming weeks.
