Babu Owino Warns Linda Mwananchi Members Against Divided Loyalties

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has cautioned members of the Linda Mwananchi movement against promoting internal divisions, saying those who associate with the opposition outfit must be prepared to support its agenda without divided political loyalties.

Speaking at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Meru County on August 30, Owino urged members to remain committed to the movement and its political direction.

The MP said individuals who join the movement should not attempt to pursue competing political interests from within. He argued that those who do not agree with the movement’s position are free to support President William Ruto instead of creating disagreements among its members.

Owino stressed that Linda Mwananchi had already established its political course before some of its current supporters joined and should therefore be allowed to continue with its programme.

His remarks came amid growing attention around the ambitions of various political figures associated with the movement ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The Embakasi East legislator also sought to dismiss speculation that he was reluctant to support Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s reported presidential ambitions.

Owino declared his backing for Sifuna, pointing to their long political association within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). He said their years of working together had given him a deep understanding of Sifuna and reinforced his decision to support him.

According to Owino, he remains fully behind Sifuna and does not intend to distance himself from the senator’s political ambitions.

The remarks come against the backdrop of another potential presidential contest within the movement after Siaya Senator James Orengo, one of Linda Mwananchi’s co-principals, indicated that he would seek the presidency in 2027.

Orengo’s declaration has added another layer to the political calculations within the opposition camp, with several prominent figures positioning themselves for the country’s top political seat.

Owino also directed his criticism at political bloggers, calling on them to be transparent about their political positions.

He argued that bloggers should not portray themselves as opposition supporters while simultaneously advancing the interests of the government.

The MP maintained that those involved in political commentary should openly declare where they stand instead of attempting to appeal to opposing sides at the same time.