Babu Owino Recalibrates Campaign Strategy Ahead of 2027 Election

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has said he will reduce his participation in Linda Mwananchi rallies to focus on his campaign for Nairobi governor.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, 15 September, Babu said the decision did not mean he was leaving the movement. He reaffirmed his support for Linda Mwananchi and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as its presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election.

“I will still attend Linda Mwananchi rallies but I will not attend all of them depending on the programme that I have,” he said.

Babu said the size of Nairobi’s political landscape required him to devote more time and resources to his gubernatorial campaign. He noted that the city has 85 wards, making it necessary for him to focus on building his support across the county.

“Nairobi has 85 wards. It is not easy. It needs resources and work. I need to focus on Nairobi. I want to shift my focus on Nairobi and not Linda Mwananchi,” he said.

His decision comes amid speculation of disagreements between him and Sifuna following a recent Linda Mwananchi rally. Babu dismissed the reports and said he would use his political networks in Nairobi to support Sifuna’s presidential campaign.

“I will support Sifuna as a presidential candidate in 2027. He is our presidential candidate,” he said.

The movement’s presidential ticket has yet to be settled, with Siaya Governor James Orengo also expressing interest in running under its banner. The competing ambitions have prompted calls for consultations within the movement before a final candidate is selected.

Linda Mwananchi has positioned itself within the wider opposition coalition and has pledged to work with the United Opposition against President William Ruto in the 2027 election.