Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has addressed the controversy surrounding the registration of The Mwananchi Party, sharing official correspondence from the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to clarify the timeline of events. Owino stated that Kenyans have the right to seek clarity on matters relating to the people-driven movement and pledged that leaders would engage with the public on those concerns. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the registration process.
According to the press release issued by The Mwananchi Party, principals of the Linda Mwananchi Movement visited the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties on August 4, 2026, to seek clarification on the availability of the "Linda Mwananchi" name for registration. The party, formerly known as the Muungano Party, subsequently pursued a formal name change. The Gazette Notice No. 13935, published on August 28, 2026, announced the proposed change.
An objection to the name change was filed by Lawrence Nzunga on August 30, 2026, but was withdrawn on September 8, 2026. The ORPP Registrar, J. C. Lorionokou, confirmed in a letter dated September 10, 2026, that the name change from Muungano Party to The Mwananchi Party had officially taken effect. The party stated that the events surrounding the matter should be understood within their proper chronology.
The disclosure comes amid mounting pressure on Babu from critics who argue that the registration of The Mwananchi Party effectively blocked Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's efforts to build the Linda Mwananchi Movement under a distinct party structure. Opponents have also raised objections to the lawmaker holding a party leadership position while simultaneously pursuing the Nairobi governorship.
Sifuna's camp has criticized Babu, with some allies calling on the registrar to revoke the name Ukombozi Alliance, which was registered by the Azimio coalition. A separate attempt to rename the United Democratic Party to Ukombozi Party was blocked by the registrar. Some opposition figures have urged Sifuna to move past the naming dispute and focus on his leadership record.
Following the party's formation, Babu announced that he would limit his attendance at Linda Mwananchi rallies to focus on his Nairobi campaign. The naming tensions have further complicated matters for Sifuna's camp, with some opposition figures urging him to pick any available party and proceed to elections.
The controversy surrounding the registration of The Mwananchi Party highlights the complexities of Kenya's political landscape. Babu Owino's decision to share official correspondence from the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties aims to provide clarity on the matter. The issue remains a topic of discussion among Kenyans, with many awaiting further developments.
Key points
- Babu Owino shared official correspondence to clarify the registration process of The Mwananchi Party.
- The registration of The Mwananchi Party has been criticized by Edwin Sifuna's camp.
- The controversy highlights the complexities of Kenya's political landscape.
