Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Babu Owino, has publicly expressed his support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's presidential bid. At the launch of the Equitable Party, where Sifuna was unveiled as the party's leader, Owino pledged his full backing for Sifuna's presidential run. He emphasized the importance of unity among supporters of the Linda Mwananchi Movement, urging them to avoid internal distractions. This endorsement comes as Sifuna's presidential ambitions gain momentum.
Owino stated that he had supported Sifuna's presidential aspirations from the outset, declaring his support in unequivocal terms. According to Owino, both he and Sifuna had deliberately kept their plans confidential while preparing the political vehicle for the right moment. This strategic approach allowed them to lay the groundwork for their new political platform without prematurely revealing their intentions. The Equitable Party launch marked a significant milestone in their journey.
During the launch, Owino recalled the origins of the Linda Mwananchi Movement, highlighting the sacrifices of its supporters. He cited a past incident where he, Sifuna, and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were attacked while traveling to Jacaranda in Embakasi East. The attack, which left bullets spraying at their vehicles, forged a stronger bond between him and Sifuna and became part of the journey leading to the new political vehicle. This shared experience has strengthened their resolve.
Owino defended Sifuna's departure from the Orange Democratic Movement, arguing that internal problems forced the senator to chart a new path. He urged supporters to forgive ODM leadership for inadvertently prompting the new movement. According to Owino, the ODM's actions, however contentious, had ultimately contributed to the formation of the new political platform. This perspective offers insight into the circumstances surrounding Sifuna's decision to leave ODM.
Reflecting on the 2022 election, Owino expressed the view that Raila Odinga should have won but that the campaign lost focus on "small issues" and "small excitement." He urged the movement not to repeat those mistakes. Instead, he called on supporters to stay focused on Kenya's pressing challenges—unemployment, school fees, and small-business difficulties. By learning from past experiences, the movement aims to improve its chances in future elections.
The Equitable Party launch marked a significant milestone in Sifuna's presidential campaign. With Owino's endorsement, Sifuna's ambitions have gained considerable momentum. As the movement embarks on its new political chapter, Owino's support is expected to play a crucial role in mobilizing supporters. The coming days will likely see increased activity as Sifuna's campaign gains traction.
As Kenya's political landscape continues to evolve, the impact of Owino's endorsement on Sifuna's presidential bid will be closely watched. With a focus on addressing the country's pressing challenges, the movement aims to present a compelling alternative to voters. Key to its success will be the ability to maintain unity and momentum in the face of future challenges. The journey ahead will be critical in determining the outcome of Sifuna's presidential ambitions.
Key points
- Babu Owino publicly endorses Senator Edwin Sifuna's presidential bid at the Equitable Party launch.
- Owino urges unity among Linda Mwananchi Movement supporters and avoidance of internal distractions.
- The endorsement is seen as a significant boost to Sifuna's presidential campaign.
