🇰🇪Tuko·10 hours ago
Kenyan newspapers: Linda Mwananchi movement gains momentum, Gachagua begins 45-day political consultation, and Bitok transferred from Education Ministry
Kenyan newspapers on Thursday, June 11, focused on the country's budget battle, the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and political developments. The Linda Mwananchi movement, led by Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna, is reportedly gaining momentum, attracting figures like former Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo and former Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter. The movement, which started as an ODM-linked reform initiative, is broadening its support beyond traditional ODM strongholds and plans rallies in Mt Kenya. Meanwhile, former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has begun a 45-day political consultation at his Wamunyoro residence, aiming to influence the 2027 General Election and identify a single presidential candidate for the opposition. This marks his third such retreat, with previous ones leading to the formation of the Democratic Congress Party. Separately, Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok was abruptly transferred to the State Department for Tourism, just hours after a meeting on school unrest. This move has sparked speculation about leadership and accountability within the Ministry of Education, with reports of tensions between Bitok and Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, and concerns over Bitok's focus on political ambitions. Additionally, opposition leaders unveiled a rival "People's Budget," urging Parliament to reject President Ruto's KSh 4.82 trillion spending plan. Led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, the United Alternative Government criticized th