Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has dismissed allegations that former president Uhuru Kenyatta is backing a rebel faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), insisting that their grassroots mobilisation is independent and citizen-driven.
Speaking during an interview on KTN News on Monday night, Owino rejected claims that the “Linda Mwananchi” movement is aligned with the former Head of State.
“Uhuru Kenyatta had already served, and he is now a former president. I don’t think there is any interest that he is chasing. He doesn’t want to be a president anymore,” Owino said when asked whether there was any convergence between the movement and Kenyatta.
His remarks come amid escalating tensions within Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), where divisions have emerged over the party’s strategic direction and its relationship with President William Ruto.
A faction linked to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Owino, and Siaya Governor James Orengo has opposed any cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration, advocating a firm opposition stance.
Another wing within the party has been viewed as more open to working with the government, deepening internal disagreements.
Allies of the pro-government camp have alleged that Kenyatta is financing opposition mobilisation efforts to weaken potential cooperation between ODM and the ruling coalition. Similar claims have also been echoed by political figures allied to the government.
However, Owino dismissed the assertions as political propaganda meant to delegitimise dissenting voices within the party and distract from economic concerns affecting ordinary citizens.
He maintained that the Linda Mwananchi rallies are focused on defending Kenyans from rising living costs, taxation pressures, and governance issues rather than advancing any individual’s political ambitions.
“The movement is about wananchi and their welfare. It is not about individuals or succession politics,” he said.
The ODM wrangles are unfolding against the backdrop of early realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with analysts warning that internal fractures could reshape the opposition landscape.