Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has denied reports of a strained relationship with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, insisting that the two have no political differences.
Speaking to the press on Tuesday, September 15, Babu said there was no conflict of interest between him and Sifuna because they were pursuing different elective positions. Babu is seeking the Nairobi governorship, while Sifuna is positioning himself for the presidency.
The MP also dismissed claims that he was jealous of Sifuna or attempting to undermine his presidential ambitions.
Senator Edwin Sifuna and MP Babu Owino. Photo: Courtesy.
Babu accused the government of attempting to create divisions within Linda Mwananchi, arguing that the movement was gaining strength and popularity.
He called for unity among opposition leaders, warning that divisions could leave individual politicians vulnerable to political pressure.
Babu also addressed claims that he and Sifuna were engaged in a dispute over the leadership of the Linda Mwananchi political movement.
The Embakasi East MP confirmed that he has his own political party, which he formed earlier in 2026.
He explained that the party was established following discussions between him and three patrons of the Linda Mwananchi movement on the need to have a political vehicle through which members could contest elective positions.
According to Babu, four parties were initially considered, including Caleb Amisi’s Renaissance Movement (PM).
However, only two of the proposed parties were eligible at the time, with some still awaiting full registration or party certificates.
He said his party therefore became one of the options available to the movement.
Babu further explained that the situation changed after another principal joined Linda Mwananchi with the Ukombozi People’s Party and proposed that Sifuna lead the party.
He said he later met Sifuna at the senator’s office to discuss which political party would be used by the movement, including his own party and Ukombozi People’s Party.
According to Babu, Sifuna indicated that the movement could operate as a coalition under Linda Mwananchi, allowing both politicians to retain leadership positions within their respective parties.
Babu maintained that he formed his political party before the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
He said his decision to establish a party was informed by the need to ensure political leaders have an independent political vehicle, noting that he did not want to repeat situations where politicians entered political agreements without having their own parties.
