On Friday, March 13, Sifuna introduced the platform, inviting supporters to sign up and show their backing.
Thousands registered on the site and committed to supporting the movement in its mission.
Yet, on Saturday, March 14, the website was found to be down, showing only a blank interface.
Sifuna later clarified that the site had been intentionally taken offline to resolve issues raised by users and to strengthen its security following malicious cyberattacks.
He urged supporters to remain patient, assuring them that the platform would return soon.
“Expectedly there were thousands of malicious attacks on the website as well as hundreds of positive feedback on how we can improve. We have taken the site offline to address the issues and incorporate your ideas. We ask for your patience kidogo tu. Have a good weekend,” he said.
Sifuna, while acknowledging the warm reception the site received, praised his supporters and encouraged them to keep up their enthusiasm.
“The website went live yesterday and thousands of you signed up. That’s the energy we need. On behalf of the entire team, thank you so much!” he said.
Linda Mwananchi was seemingly created to counter the “Linda Ground” initiative spearheaded by the ODM faction loyal to party leader and Siaya senator Oburu Oginga.
Sifuna heads the ODM rebels who have pledged to oppose President William Ruto; meanwhile, the Oburu-led faction has signaled its willingness to back Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.
Among those aligned with Sifuna in the anti-Ruto camp are Siaya governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Vihiga senator Godfrey Osotsi, and Saboti MP Caleb Amisi.
On Oburu’s side are ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga, co-deputy party leaders governors Abdulswamad Nassir and Simba Arati, along with Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, among others.
The two factions have traded accusations of being manipulated either by Ruto or former president Uhuru Kenyatta.
The Oburu wing alleges that their rivals are being used by Uhuru to undermine the broad-based government, though they themselves have pledged loyalty to Ruto.
Conversely, the Sifuna faction charges that their counterparts are serving Ruto’s interests and giving him room to interfere in ODM affairs.
Each faction insists its position had the endorsement of the late Raila Odinga, whose passing last October left the party in disarray.
This happens after a group of Bukusu elders, descendants of activist Elijah Masinde, invited Sifuna to receive blessings, noting his growing political influence.
They praised him as a rising leader who should remain grounded, urging him to avoid political distractions and stay connected to his roots.
The elders emphasised unity within the Luhya community, expressing confidence that Sifuna is on the right path and could one day ascend to the presidency if he continues wisely.