Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Babu Owino, has made an appeal to organisers and supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement's (ODM) Broad-Based Jacaranda rally to maintain peace during the event. The rally, scheduled to take place on October 31, 2026, at Jacaranda Grounds, has been a subject of interest for many residents. Owino, who is also a key figure in the Linda Mwananchi Movement, expressed his concerns about the safety of attendees and the community at large. He emphasized the importance of respecting human life and exercising political rights without violence.
Speaking during the unveiling of the Linda Mwananchi Movement secretariat, Owino urged residents to be allowed to exercise their political rights without any form of violence. He emphasized that the community should not witness any loss of life during the gathering. As the elected representative of Jacaranda and Embakasi East Constituency, Owino took it upon himself to ensure that the event is peaceful. He expressed his love for the community and his desire to see the rally conclude without any incidents.
The ODM rally comes weeks after the Linda Mwananchi Movement, led by a faction opposed to the party's broad-based government arrangement, drew large crowds at the same venue on September 13, 2026. This event had significant attendance, and it is expected that the ODM rally will also draw a large crowd. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Owino have been working together to mobilize supporters across Nairobi's 17 constituencies. Their efforts aim to consolidate support for the Oburu Oginga-led ODM and demonstrate the party's organisational strength.
Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, who is among the rally organisers, stated that the October 31 gathering seeks to consolidate support for the Oburu Oginga-led ODM. The event also aims to demonstrate the party's organisational strength and attract voters amid concerns over its declining popularity. Odiwuor's remarks highlight the significance of the rally in showcasing the party's capabilities and addressing concerns about its popularity.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud has assured ODM of adequate security during the event. He stated that police officers would be deployed along the route from Uhuru Park to Jacaranda Grounds to maintain security and ensure the peaceful movement of participants. The Regional Police boss also warned against attempts to disrupt the gathering, emphasizing that security agencies would take necessary measures to maintain law and order.
In his remarks, Owino drew a distinction between his group and the ODM, stating that while they may be younger, they are wiser. He urged participants to conclude their activities and leave the venue peacefully, assuring residents that he would return afterwards to oversee the cleaning of the grounds. This move demonstrates Owino's commitment to ensuring that the event does not leave a negative impact on the community.
The rally is expected to be a significant event for the ODM, with various stakeholders and supporters in attendance. Key stakeholders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, will likely play a crucial role in shaping the party's future. With adequate security measures in place, the event is expected to proceed peacefully.
Key points
- Babu Owino urges peace and warns against violence at ODM's Broad-Based Jacaranda rally.
- The rally aims to consolidate support for the Oburu Oginga-led ODM and demonstrate its organisational strength.
- Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud assures ODM of adequate security during the event.
