Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has publicly endorsed Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna following the launch of Sifuna's new political outfit, The Equitable Party (TEP), at Sarova Hotel on Sunday, October 4. Owino confirmed his attendance at the event and described Sifuna as both a brother and a presidential candidate he is backing. This move comes as Sifuna positions himself for the 2027 General Election.
The launch of TEP marks a significant step for Sifuna, a prominent opposition figure who has chosen to chart an independent political course ahead of the 2027 General Election. The event attracted a notable gathering of senior politicians, including governors James Orengo and George Natembeya, and senators Boni Khalwale and Richard Onyonka. Owino played a key role in introducing the leaders who were present at the event.
Owino expressed optimism about Sifuna's political ambitions, framing the new party as a vehicle for returning Kenya to constitutional governance and the rule of law. In a statement on his official X account, Owino wished Sifuna all the best as he begins his journey to take the country back to constitutionalism and the rule of law. This show of support is notable given earlier reports of a clash between Owino and the Linda Mwananchi coalition.
The emergence of The Equitable Party adds yet another dimension to an increasingly crowded and fluid political landscape in Kenya, with various factions and new formations positioning themselves well ahead of the next general election. Sifuna's decision to launch his own party rather than remain aligned with his previous party structures has garnered significant attention.
Owino's attendance at the launch and his endorsement of Sifuna come after reports of a controversy surrounding the naming of his own political vehicle, The Mwananchi Party (TMP). His decision to rally behind Sifuna's TEP launch suggested a realignment of alliances within opposition circles as 2027 approaches.
In related news, Owino gave a detailed account of how the Muungano Party became The Mwananchi Party, including the official timeline confirmed by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties. Babu said the Muungano Party applied for a name change days after the Linda Mwananchi movement went to the registrar seeking the availability of its name.
The launch of The Equitable Party and Babu Owino's endorsement of Edwin Sifuna's presidential bid signify a new phase in Kenya's political landscape. As the 2027 General Election approaches, various political factions and new formations are positioning themselves, making the road to the presidency increasingly competitive.
Key points
- Babu Owino endorses Edwin Sifuna's presidential bid and attends the launch of The Equitable Party.
- The launch of The Equitable Party marks Sifuna's independent political course ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- Owino's endorsement and party realignment reflect the fluid political landscape in Kenya as 2027 approaches.
