Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has announced the temporary shutdown of the Linda Mwananchi website just a day after its launch.
In a statement shared through his official X account on Saturday, March 14, the embattled Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) secretary general cited a surge in cyber attacks and the need to improve the platform following overwhelming public interest.
Sifuna said the website, which went live on Friday, March 13, attracted thousands of sign-ups within hours, reflecting strong public enthusiasm for the initiative. However, the platform also experienced numerous malicious attacks, forcing the team behind the project to temporarily take it offline.
“What a start.! http://Lindamwananchi.com 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 stated.
Sifuna noted that the shutdown will allow developers to address technical issues, strengthen security, and incorporate the many suggestions submitted by users who interacted with the site during its first day online.
Despite the challenges, the lawmaker welcomed the strong public response, saying it demonstrated the level of interest Kenyans have in the platform’s objectives. He thanked supporters for signing up and providing feedback aimed at improving the site.
Sifuna appealed for patience as the technical team works to resolve the issues, assuring users that the platform will return stronger after the necessary upgrades.
“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,” Sifuna wrote on X.
