The newly launched Linda Mwananchi website has been temporarily taken offline following a wave of alleged cyber attacks targeting the platform shortly after it went live.
Edwin Sifuna confirmed the development on Saturday, March 14, saying the decision aimed to resolve technical issues and improve the platform’s security.
According to Sifuna, the website was launched on Friday, March 13 and immediately attracted massive interest from Kenyans who rushed to register and support the initiative. He thanked supporters for the strong response, noting that thousands of users had already signed up within hours of the launch.
However, he said the platform also faced numerous malicious attacks soon after it went live, forcing the team to take it offline temporarily while engineers work on addressing the vulnerabilities.
Sifuna explained that the shutdown would allow developers to strengthen the system and also incorporate feedback received from users about improving the platform.
The project also attracted controversy online after screenshots allegedly showing personal details of users began circulating on social media. The images appeared to display names, phone numbers, email addresses and other personal information linked to individuals who had registered on the site.
The development raised concerns among some users about whether the website had sufficient safeguards to protect personal data and privacy.
Despite the challenges, the Linda Mwananchi initiative has gained significant traction online, with supporters describing it as a platform aimed at mobilising citizens around governance and accountability issues.
The movement has recently attracted strong political backing from leaders including Babu Owino and James Orengo.
In recent weeks, the group has also criticised the political cooperation between the government and opposition, with Sifuna’s faction accusing rivals aligned with Oburu Oginga of betraying the legacy of Raila Odinga by working with William Ruto.
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