Sifuna Rewards Bungoma Woman Who Hugged Tree for Linda Mwananchi

A woman from Bungoma who hugged a tree for more than 24 hours in support of the Linda Mwananchi Movement has received more than Sh100,000 from the organisation, with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna presenting the donation in person.

The movement said the contribution recognised Naliaka's commitment to its cause rather than serving as charity. Photographs shared online showed Sifuna embracing her as supporters applauded. He also instructed his security team to safeguard the money, underlining the importance the movement attached to her demonstration. In a statement, the movement said, "Naliaka waited 72+ hours for this. Worth it."

Naliaka's protest gained widespread attention on social media, with many viewing it as a symbol of resilience and commitment during a period of political uncertainty. The Linda Mwananchi Movement said the donation reflected its appreciation for the sacrifices ordinary citizens are prepared to make in support of accountability and justice.

The movement's focus on grassroots mobilisation was also evident in Trans Nzoia County, where residents of Kiminini turned a roadside rally into an informal fundraising effort. Supporters contributed small amounts, ranging from coins to low-value notes, as they gathered around Sifuna's convoy.

Videos shared online showed people making their way through the crowd to hand over their donations, offering a contrast to the large financial contributions often associated with political campaigns. Speaking to supporters, Sifuna said the donations demonstrated an alternative approach to political financing based on contributions from ordinary citizens instead of wealthy backers.

"They said one cannot be president in this country without money. I would rather be indebted to the people giving me as little as Sh10 than be indebted to one person who will give me Sh10 million," he said.

Sifuna said leaders who rely on large donors often face pressure to reward them with government contracts after taking office.

"Those people will give you Sh10 million and then follow us when we take over the leadership of the country and demand to be given huge contracts," he said, adding that such arrangements rarely benefit the public.

The Linda Mwananchi Movement describes itself as a people-led initiative. Former Jubilee official Pauline Njoroge has encouraged Kenyans to contribute even small amounts to support the movement's logistics and mobilisation activities. The emphasis on micro-donations forms part of its strategy to reduce reliance on wealthy financiers and build support through collective public participation.