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Big win for Sifuna as PPDT declines to stop party name change meeting
NAIROBI — The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) has declined an application by lawyer Danstan Omari seeking to stop Linda Mwananchi’s National Delegates Conference (NDC), allowing the planned meeting to proceed on November 13, 2026.
The ruling is a major boost for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who is behind the conference. The meeting is expected to ratify the change of the party’s name from TEP to Linda Mwananchi.
Omari had moved to the tribunal seeking conservatory orders that would have blocked the gathering, arguing that the process leading to the planned name change should be halted pending a full hearing. The tribunal, however, declined to grant the orders, finding that the application did not meet the threshold required to stop the delegates from meeting.
With the decision, the party’s leadership now has the green light to convene delegates from across the country to deliberate on and formally endorse the new name. Sources close to the party say preparations for the conference have been under way for weeks, with organizers keen to ensure the process complies with the party’s constitution and the Political Parties Act.
Allies of Sifuna welcomed the ruling, describing it as a vindication of the party’s internal democratic processes and a rebuke to attempts to derail its plans through the courts. They maintain that the name change reflects the wishes of members and supporters who want a platform more closely aligned with the “Linda Mwananchi” message.
It remains unclear whether Omari will appeal the decision or pursue the substantive petition, which may still be heard by the tribunal at a later date. Declining interim orders does not necessarily mean the main case has been decided.
Political analysts say the ruling removes a key obstacle ahead of the 2027 General Election, giving the outfit room to rebrand and consolidate its structures. The conference, set for tomorrow, is expected to draw delegates, party officials and supporters.
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