Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has expressed his unwavering support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the presidential candidate of the Linda Mwananchi movement, despite disagreements over the political party that will carry the movement into the 2027 General Election. Speaking in Kisumu on September 18, 2026, Babu stated that his relationship with Sifuna would not be affected by the party differences. He recalled their past challenges in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and emphasized his commitment to Sifuna's presidential ambitions.
Babu and Sifuna have been allies since the latter's expulsion from ODM. Babu noted that they had worked together through difficult times and that history would not be undone by the current disagreement. He emphasized that Sifuna was like a brother to him and that he would not abandon him. Babu's stance comes as leaders within Linda Mwananchi struggle to agree on a political party for the 2027 election. He plans to continue mobilizing support for Sifuna and campaigning for him as the movement's presidential candidate.
The disagreement within Linda Mwananchi has raised questions about the movement's future and its ability to bring together different political parties and interests. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has backed Ukombozi People's Party as the vehicle for Sifuna's presidential campaign, putting him at odds with Babu. Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Murang'a Senator Joe Nyutu have made efforts to keep the differences from growing into a wider disagreement.
Babu has proposed a coalition arrangement where different leaders maintain their separate political parties while operating together under Linda Mwananchi. He believes that Ukombozi Party and Mwananchi Party can remain in place while building a wider political alliance. This arrangement would allow leaders to maintain their political identities while joining forces for the wider campaign.
The party disagreement is taking place alongside discussions about the movement's eventual presidential ticket. Siaya Governor James Orengo has called for a credible process for leaders to seek the Linda Mwananchi presidential nomination. Babu's reduced presence at some Linda Mwananchi rallies should not be interpreted as a withdrawal from the movement, but rather as a focus on political mobilization in Nairobi.
Babu plans to devote more attention to Nairobi, which has 85 wards and nearly 2.5 million registered voters. He will still attend some Linda Mwananchi activities depending on his schedule. His position leaves him maintaining his own political party while continuing to back Sifuna's presidential ambitions. The question now facing the movement is whether its leaders will reach agreement on a coalition model or settle on a single political party.
The outcome will significantly impact the movement's 2027 plans. Babu's commitment to Sifuna and the proposed coalition arrangement may shape the movement's future. The leaders' ability to resolve their differences and present a united front will be crucial in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election.
Key points
- Babu Owino reaffirms support for Edwin Sifuna amidst party disagreement within Linda Mwananchi.
- Proposed coalition arrangement may shape the movement's 2027 plans.
- Leaders' ability to resolve differences will impact the movement's future.
